Straight White Male: Norm and Ahmed by Alex Buzo followed by Radha and Ryan by Nick Parsons in powerful double bill
AC
In a compelling juxtaposition of past and present, the two plays of Straight White Male transcend time yet resonate with contemporary relevance
The echoes of 1968 reverberate into 2024 as both plays explore a single familiar premise: an empty street, late at night, where a white man confronts an Asian student. Different eras, different people, yet the same gnawing fear pulsates through their encounter. As Ryan says, “Men are seriously confused and angry – but when men get angry they want to hurt someone … And mostly the first person they hurt is themselves.”
With “Norm and Ahmed” by Alex Buzo, a seminal work from 1968, serving as a historical anchor, audiences are propelled into the present with “Radha and Ryan,” a new play penned by three-time AWGIE winner Nick Parsons, delving deeper into the complexities of male identity and societal expectations.
Praise for Nick Parsons:
Dead Heart
‘A gripping contempo drama set in the middle of the Australian wilderness, “Dead Heart” provides thought-provoking intrigue and suspense in a spectacular outdoor setting. It also is a notable showcase for co-producer Bryan Brown, in one of his best performances to date as a cop caught up in tribal Aboriginal conflicts. Intelligent and timely, pic should find appreciative audiences around the world and fest exposure should drum up word of mouth for this classy item.’ – David Stratten, Variety
The Straits
‘…the 10-episode series has a solid story, plenty of forward momentum and, for the American viewer, an unfamiliar setting that supplies guilt-free exoticism … “The Straits” mixes gangster film and culture clash formulas in interesting ways and occasionally provides some slyly humorous dialogue.’ – Mike Hale, New York Times
This double bill explores themes of violence, discussions of rape and sexual violence, mentions of suicide and miscarriage and includes the use of homophobic and racist slurs. Viewer discretion is advised.
Produced and Directed by: Nick Parsons
Cast: Danny McGinlay, Gursimar Kaur, Isaac Rajakariar, Sam Eade
Stage Management: Mikaela Innes
Lighting Design: Max Bowyer
Set/Costume Design: Jo Arrowsmith (with assistance from Adelash Parsons)
Music by: T.Morimoto
Image by: Danielle Evans
Don’t miss this compelling theatrical event where two plays tell one resonant story. Playing for a limited season.
Dates
Apr 23 – May 5
Times
Tue, Wed: 6.30pm
Thurs, Fri, Sat: 7.30pm
Sun: 4pm
Running time
130mins including 20min interval
Venue
La Mama HQ (205 Faraday St, Carlton VIC 3053
