wit incorporated – putting women at the heart of the story
Published on 20 June 2017
This winter, wit incorporated will present two seasons of theatre — written, directed and performed by women — in the Bluestone Church Arts Space.
Based in Footscray, wit incorporated is an independent theatre company that brings professional theatre to the City of Maribyrnong with a focus on stories that reflect the narrative of our community and that are relevant to audiences.
For their 2017 Season, wit incorporated puts women in the spotlight to highlight the gender disparity that is often seen in theatre, an industry in which women often only feature in supporting roles, and stories written and directed by women are hard to come by.
Artistic Director of wit incorporated, Belinda Campbell, said that placing women in significant theatre roles is an important statement.
“Too often, we see women only in supporting roles and it can be difficult to find stories written or directed by women. So this season, we’re presenting works by women. That means every actor, director and writer involved is a woman,” Belinda said.
But Belinda acknowledges that gender is only one part of the equation when it comes to reaching equality in the theatre industry.
“Gender isn’t the only great divider in our society. So you’ll also see casts as diverse as the community in which they are performing. That means our shows will be performed with actors from diverse cultural backgrounds, of differing sexuality, some with disability, some without,” Belinda continued.
Kicking off wit incorporated's season at Bluestone Church Arts Space is the world premiere of A Hero’s Guide to Saving the Planet, a comedy for anyone who loves a superhero that is bound to delight audiences of all ages from 1–15 July.
An environmental superheroes adventure, this funny, silly play reminds us of the important ways we can save the planet, by reducing what we use and recycling everything we can. Written by Belinda Campbell, the production is complete with shiny capes, cheesy catchphrases and groan worthy jokes.
A Scandal in the Weimar, another world premiere, follows. Taking place from 25 August to 9 September, the production is a new Sherlock Holmes adventure by Claire Bowen and Jennifer Piper.
The classic buddy story sees Lady Sherlock Holmes and Dr Jean Watson travel to Berlin in 1939 to face off against the Nazis, track down Irene Adler and retrieve sensitive information. Coming to see the show will be like walking into an underground bar in 1930s Berlin.
Preparation for the play took place earlier this year when wit incorporated was the artist in residence in Artsbox, a vibrant and creative space located outside Footscray Library that provides short term residencies to artists who engage with the local community.
wit incorporated transformed the shipping container into the backstage area of a 1930s German cabaret, and during the residency, created an all new song that forms the centrepiece of A Scandal in the Weimar, finalised the script, created the visuals, and planned the costumes and set.
With two exciting, action packed adventures that reflect our community, you’re guaranteed a great night out.
Belinda encourages everyone to come and enjoy the stage productions, even those who are new to the theatre experience.
“Theatre isn’t a philosophy lecture. It’s fun. It’s accessible. It’s for everyone,” Belinda said.
A Hero’s Guide to Saving the Planet
1 – 15 July
Wednesday to Sunday, 10am and 1pm
Bluestone Church Arts Space, 8A Hyde Street, Footscray
Recommended for people aged 3 – 103 years
Children up to 2 years admitted free with a paying adult
Tickets: $25
A Scandal in the Weimer
25 August – 9 September
Thursday to Saturday, 7.30pm, and Sunday, 1pm
Bluestone Church Arts Space, 8A Hyde Street, Footscray
Recommended for people aged 13+
Tickets: $25
For further information, visit witinc.com.au
Message from the Mayor – Cr Catherine Cumming
It is fantastic to see wit incorporated putting women in the spotlight for these productions!
Council is committed to nurturing a community where opportunities for success are equally available to women and men, so it makes me proud to see local organisations supporting these efforts in an attempt to remove the gender disparity found in a number of industries.
I encourage everyone to head along to these shows, they sound like they will be a lot of fun!
Maribyrnong News
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