Queensland Theatre Company Presents ORPHANS, 6/23-7/9

Queensland Theatre Company presents the Australian premiere of Orphans by Dennis Kelly - a multi-award winning psychological thriller which tests how far a family will go to protect their own. If you enjoyed Animal Kingdom or Underbelly you'll be right at home with these characters who struggle to leave their disturbing past behind and move on to a better life.

Orphans begins with Liam barrelling into Helen and Danny's romantic dinner covered in someone else's blood. As details of what has happened are revealed it's clear that Liam has landed his sister Helen with two choices - protect her brother or protect her family by excluding Liam from their lives.

Director Kat Henry said "When you consider the Cronulla riots or violence against Indian students in recent times, it's clear that violence and racial tension are important issues facing our society and Orphans explores the link between violence within a dysfunctional community and the personal challenges faced by people who live in them. In the show we examine the cycle of abuse and how victims can become survivors as adults, or continue the cycle as perpetrators. This show is fast paced and punchy with insidious undertones, chillingly referencing the real-world violence which we read about every day."

Orphans stars Helen Cassidy, Leon Cain and Christopher Sommers and while violence never occurs on the stage its dark spectre is felt throughout the show and in the characters' lives. Orphans is part of Queensland Theatre Company's Studio Season, which showcases theatre with a twist.

Director: Kat Henry
Designer: Samantha Paxton
Lighting Designer: Ben Hughes
Sound Designer: Guy Webster
Cast: Helen Cassidy, Leon Cain and Christopher Sommers

Queensland Theatre Company presents Orphans by Dennis Kelly
Venue: Bille Brown Studio
Dates: 23 June - 9 July
Tickets: $28 - $35
Bookings: www.queenslandtheatre.com.au or 136 246

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