Powerful Play Asks Tough Questions About Violence Against Women

HURRIED STEPS is a hard hitting, powerful text by award-winning Italian writer, Dacia Maraini.
It was written in collaboration with Amnesty International as part of its global campaign to stop violence against women and girls (VAWG).
Sydney is to see a series of specially staged oratorio-style performances
- to coincide with UN WOMEN'S CAMPAIGN - 16 Days of Activism beginning on White Ribbon Day, 25th Nov.

HURRIED STEPS reveals how the narratives behind Violence Against Women and Girls are complex and idiosyncratic, yet the cause and effects are universally similar. It asks "Why is violence against women prevalent in all countries and cultures, and across all social, religious, geographical and cultural groups?"

The hour-long play, which has resonated with audiences around the world, will be followed by a Q&A between a panel of local experts (including professional advocates familiar with the issues raised in the stories) and the audience.

Maraini says HURRIED STEPS is about women fleeing from pain and discrimination. "Inspired by real facts reported by Amnesty International, the text is a testimony, an accusation, a gesture of solidarity and acknowledgment of all those women who are still prisoners of forced marriage, of a violent family, of a hustler, of tradition or of age-old discriminations which are so difficult to overcome."

This production, translated by Sharon Wood (Professor of Italian at the University of Leicester) and produced by veteran local NIDA graduate, actress and theatre educator Olivia Brown, welcomes London director Nicolette Kay (New Shoes Theatre). Ms Kay has collaborated previously with both Maraini and Brown and comes to Sydney supported by The Arts Council of England and The British Council's Artists Development Fund. It stars local actors Lex Marinos, Grant Cartwright, Emele Ugavule, Bodelle de Ronde, and Olivia Brown.

For tickets and more information please visit www.hurriedstepsaustralia.com.

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