New Australian play set to tackle gender transition

Into the Mirror, a new play by Australian playwright Shelley Wall, will debut next month at King Street Theatre in Newtown. It will meet the confronting issue of gender transition head-on, but with tenderness and compassion.

Into the Mirror stars Penny Day as Kendall

After 18 months abroad, Melanie arrives home to discover that her mother Sally is a complete stranger. Sally – now Kendall – is desperate to be the man he wants to be. Tyler is reeling from an explosive lesbian relationship and is captivated by Kendall’s endearing charm, causing her to question her sexuality. Meanwhile, Sophia is haunted by a decision she made years ago, and Laura must deal with the consequences of a childhood secret that will ultimately affect her future.

Into the Mirror explores the bond between mothers and daughters and relationships between lovers, families and friends. Using the gender lens of Kendall’s transition,  we see issues that are present in all relationships.

Into the Mirror is directed by its playwright Shelley Wall. It stars Penny Day, Helen Stuart, Amber Robinson, Carole Sharkey-Waters and Katie Lees. Design by Lisa Bruce, original music by Rachel Wall and Craig Dimond (Room 28), choreography by Julie O’Reilly, make-up artist Marisa Birbara.

Performances begin 21 November. For more information and bookings visit www.kingstreettheatre.com.au

Cassie Tongue

Cassie is a theatre critic and arts writer in Sydney, and was the deputy editor of AussieTheatre. She has written for The Guardian, Time Out Sydney, Daily Review, and BroadwayWorld Australia. She is a voter for the Sydney Theatre Awards.

Cassie Tongue

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