Glen Street Theatre to Present Award-Winning Play MOTHERLAND
Based in fact, the epic and intimate Motherland intertwines the sweeping stories of three very different women from different times, united in the heartache of exile from their homelands.
From the chaos of a Russian military coup, through the hell of Nazi-occupied France to a turbulent Brisbane in the throes of the Fitzgerald Inquiry, Brisbane playwright Katherine Lyall-Watson has penned a carefully researched historical drama about how world-changing events can ripple out and take a terrible toll on everyday lives.
Brisbane-born Nell travelled the world, marrying the Russian Prime Minister and helping him flee the Nazis in World War II. Feisty writer and academic Nina quit her native Russia for Paris, but has returned in her twilight years. And single mother Alyona is a Russian museum curator whisked away to Brisbane by an Australian businessman, in search of a brighter future that may just collapse before her eyes.
"Bringing Motherland's extraordinary women out of The Shadows of history and interweaving their stories needed great care and precision. Working closely together with a sensitive design team allowed us to explore the nuances of movement, sound, light and contemporary design to build the epic world and allow the rich and muscular writing to transport the audience," said director Caroline Dunphy. "I'm thrilled that Motherland continues to resonate on many levels and that these women's intimate stories stand the test of time with courage and integrity."
Motherland premiered in Brisbane in 2013 and won the Matilda Award and for Best Independent Production and the Groundlings Award for Best Overall Production. Actress Barbara Lowing was also awarded a Gold Matilda Award and the Groundling Award for Outstanding Conribution by and Actress for her performance. The play was a finalist in the PatRick White Playwrights' Award in 2013 and was then programmed in Queensland Theatre Company's 2016 season as part of a tour made possible by Critical Stages and Ellen Belloo.
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