First time collaborators Tiny Dog Productions and Dead Fly Productions team up to bring you The Children’s Hour by Lillian Hellman at The Old Fitz Theatre this February, as part of the 2025 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival.
Based on a true story, The Children’s Hour follows the story of Martha and Karen who run a boarding school for young girls. Mary, a troubled and particularly difficult student, overhears a conversation she isn’t meant to be privy to. When Mary is caught running away from school, she tells a lie to her unsuspecting Grandmother that has devastating and lasting consequences.
Released in 1934, the work’s themes of injustice, intolerance, homophobia, homosexuality, suicide and exploration of the way in which lies spread, continue to be topics that are highly relevant 90 years on. Referred to as ‘ahead of its time’ Lillian Hellman’s first play was performed 691 times to eager audiences, despite the ongoing debate that surrounded it.
At the time of the play’s premiere, the mention of homosexuality on stage was illegal in New York State. The Children’s Hour was in serious consideration for the Pulitzer Prize Drama category, but due to its controversial subject matter was rejected and the judges refused to see it.
What did cancel culture look like 90 years ago? Exposing homophobia as a societal sickness with heart-breaking consequences, The Children’s Hour lays bare the uncomfortable reality of the power of the rumour mill and the realization that none of us are safe when one group is oppressed.
In 2024, a year that saw a global reversal of queer and women’s rights, The Children’s Hour will implore us to do better in 2025 as the 90 year old text rings ominously true of recent events.
“I hope audiences will reflect on the consequences of a lie and I also hope they will go home and look up the meaning of the word morality and reflect on its current value in today’s social and cultural milieu. I want them to leave the theatre asking more of themselves and others,” said director Kim Hardwick.
Hardwick is an award-winning director and producer who has staged works in Australia and New York to great critical acclaim. Leading a cast of seasoned and up and coming performers, this will be Hardwick’s fourth production to take to the Old Fitz stage.
“The play works very powerfully as a tale of injustice that makes you want to shout out at the characters” – British Theatre Guide
Director: Kim Hardwick | Featuring: Sarah Ballantyne, Jess Bell, Amy Bloink, Mike Booth, Annie Byron, Kim Clifton, Romney Hamilton, Martelle Hammer, Miranda Huttley, Deborah Jones, Lara Kocsis, Madeline Kunstler, Kira McLennan | Assistant Director: Maddy Steadman | Set Designer: Emelia Simcox | Costume Designer: Hannah Yardley | Lighting Designer: Jimi Rawlings | Sound Designer: Michael Huxley | Stage Manager: Clare Sheridan | Vocal Coach: Linda Nichols-Gidley | Graphic Designer: Melinda Jensen
The Children’s Hour
The Old Fitz Theatre, 129 Dowling Street, Woolloomooloo (Sydney)
Season: 16 February – 1 March 2025 (previews: 14 & 15 February)
Information and Bookings: www.oldfitztheatre.com.au
Image: Melinda Jensen