Written by Mark Ravenhill
Red Stitch Theatre
7 April – 9 May
‘They can’t stand that the past wasn’t just the same as today. If something was done differently in the past they bawl and the whine, kick and spit and attack.’
Ravenhill’s darkly humorous meditation on institutionalised violence examines how we judge the past, with its different values, by the standards of the present. How can we make amends for wrongs which have been committed in the past, within different standards and norms and morals?
Edward, the last bastion of an era that practised corporal punishment, is besieged by a mob of angry students and progressive values espoused by the new ‘Academy’ system of schooling. His wife and possibly duplicitous daughter are helping to save his legacy…or are they?
“A compelling new play… Breathtakingly savage.”
The Times
“Taut, troubling…vintage Ravenhill.”
Time Out, London
Director: Kirsten von Bibra
Featuring: Jessica Clarke, Caroline Lee and Dion Mills
Set and Costume: Lara Week
Lighting: Bronwyn Pringle
Sound: Adam Casey
Stage Manager: Rain Shadrach
Assistant Stage Manager: Jaqueline Sabbagh
Assistant Stage Manager: Eden Cotter-Longworth
“Ravenhill fiendishly keeps us guessing… it’s hard to know what to think or who to trust.”
Time Out, Melbourne
“The Cane is very much a story of our times… characterised by three strong and accomplished performances. Each find their moments to shine, alternately domineering, compliant and submissive.”
The Blurb
“If you love intense, character driven theatre, you need to make a trip to Red Stitch to see The Cane. This powerful new work is a great way to celebrate the return of live theatre to Melbourne, and is not one to be missed.”
Lilithia Reviews
“As relevant as plays come, The Cane is gripping viewing.”
Man In Chair