suncloudsI’m happy to say that the discussion continues regarding the programming of female writers and directors by mainstage theatre companies, as well it should.

Nick Pickard has now weighed into the debate, as have the 7-On team. I stick by my comments (even though it has been suggested to me that I might never be programmed in Sydney now!) I’ve really enjoyed the healthy debate, and maintain that as it has brought so many out of the woodwork in debate, it proves that we need to keep conversing and find concrete solutions.

I eagerly opened my browser this morning to learn what our Melbourne counterparts at MTC had programmed for 2010. I was thrilled to see that three female playwrights (two Australians – Hannie Rayson and Joanna Murray-Smith, and Sarah Ruhl from the US) make up the season, as well as one female co-writer (Lisa Lambert for The Drowsy Chaperone). As far as I know, only one female is directing, Kate Cherry.

I would like to throw statistics aside for a moment though, and share my joy at some of MTC’s programming decisions. Namely THANK YOU for programming Marius Von Mayenburg’s The Ugly One and Sarah Ruhl’s Dead Man’s Cell Phone. Both plays have been on my must-read/see list for some time, as plugged by overseas and Australian friends. I’m also happy to see J.T. Rodgers’ Madagascar already on Australian stages. It was performed as a reading in collaboration with Playwriting Australia only recently, and I was in attendance. It is a haunting play which allows for much audience discovery. 

Tomorrow we will have the official word on STC’s programme for 2010, including some of the worst kept secrets around! I look forward to a vibrant and varied programme of cutting edge contemporary works and revived classics, with of course a healthy dose of Australian writing. Fingers crossed! 

On a reflective note, all this recent discussion has actually renewed my love of theatre, its people and our Australian industry. Rather than feeling defeatist about the whole thing (ie. the future), I feel rather bouyed by the possibility of change and our collective determination to right the mistakes that have been made. I have loved conversing with all of you, here on Cluster and elsewhere. May we remain as committed to, passionate about and excited about theatre, for many years to come.  

Happy writing,

Jo