'Williamson gives most of his characters strong arcs, and their seesawing fortunes echo their moral journeys ... they are human and messy and besmirched, and the actors bring a lot of joy to their foibles.'
'Skilfully led by Nadine Garner, the work still has much to offer'
'A rip-roaring revival ... a fitting tribute to a playwright who forever changed the way Australian’s tell stories on stage'
'Strong directs at a cracking pace ... enlivened by subtle, yet stylish costume designs – with a cute nod to Kylie’s infamous ‘noughts-and-crosses’ dress – and an abstract, translucent set that sparkles and glistens like Sydney harbour on a perfect day.'
'a well-constructed entertainment from an intelligent playwright'
'Rapid-fire satire'
'A golden performance that celebrates a golden anniversary beautifully'
ABOUT THE SHOW
Welcome to the glittering jewel in Australia’s cultural crown – that sinkhole of ambition and superficiality we call Sydney. Colin is Australia’s most successful screenwriter, but since moving from Melbourne with his wife Kate he’s been faced with a choice between art and commerce that will define his career forever. Meanwhile, Kate’s star is on the ascent and her latest publication has been shortlisted for the Booker Prize. Fame and fortune are there for the taking, but big surprises are in store for them both.
Part love-letter, part hate-mail to the harbour city, this is the finest comedy by Australian theatre’s most beloved craftsman and commentator, David Williamson. A panoramic view of the city that tends to prize beauty over brains, Emerald City is a fast-moving, wisecracking commentary on contemporary values that skewers the materialism of the 1980s with razor-sharp precision.
What better way to celebrate 50 years of David Williamson’s plays on our stages than with an absolute classic of Australian theatre directed by Queensland Theatre Artistic Director Sam Strong (Jasper Jones), starring Ray Chong Nee (Noises Off), Marg Downey (Rupert), Nadine Garner (Photograph 51), Megan Hind (Secret Bridesmaids' Business), Jason Klarwein (A Streetcar Named Desire) and Rhys Muldoon (House Husbands).
A co-production with Queensland Theatre
Accessibility
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Wheelchair Accessible
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Hearing Assistance
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Audio Described
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Tactile Tour
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Open Captioning
| Performance Type | Performance Date(s) |
|---|---|
|
Audio Described
by Vision Australia |
Saturday 28 March at 2pm Tuesday 31 March at 6.30pm |
|
Tactile Tour
by Vision Australia |
Commences at 1pm, prior to the 2pm performances on Saturday 28 March |
|
Open Captioning
via screen |
Saturday 4 April at 2pm |
Cast & Creative
Read more about Emerald City
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MTC NOW
MTC Celebration Cake
During her time in the MasterChef kitchen, MTC Company Manager Leah Milburn-Clark became known for her desserts. Here, she shares her tips, and recipe, for a cake inspired by the Company's 2020 season.
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Programme
Emerald City Programme
Learn more about this sparkling revival of David Williamson's Australian classic in our production programme, available for just $2 in the theatre foyers or free online.
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Interview
Creating the canon
Director Sam Strong talks about celebrating David Williamson’s five decades of work, and the exciting challenges of reviving one of his finest plays for 2020 audiences.
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Interview
A Brilliant Career
We chat with Nadine Garner about Emerald City, making art and her brilliant career.
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Interview
Five decades of David Williamson
The playwright reflects on the highs and lows of his illustrious career.
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Interview
The intimate details
You may know actor Michala Banas from her onscreen roles in Upper Middle Bogan or McLeod’s Daughters, but her new role is her most personal yet.
