After a sold-out work-in-development season, PYT Fairfield will premiere PICKLED at the Belvoir St Theatre from 20 August – 8 September 2024.
This compelling new production, tells the story of Sammy and Yousif, two queer Middle Eastern brothers who reunite after their mother’s sudden passing. Their sole inheritance – a jar of pickles – sets them on a path to uncover hidden family truths and navigate their cultural and personal identities.
PICKLED delves into themes of preservation and authenticity, exploring the balance between cultural traditions and contemporary queerness. Audiences will experience a unique blend of cooking, family dynamics, playfulness, and poignant moments of grief and reconciliation.
“It’s a dramedy that unravels the truths of two estranged brothers, whose decade-long absence has left them clinging to fragmented memories, as they prepare for their mother’s funeral. A poignant reunion that interrogates family, culture, and queerness in a powerfully hilarious and thought-provoking way,” said Najee Tannous, the concept creator, who also stars in the show.
“Pickled reimagines Lebanese Australian culture in new ways charged with the objective of celebrating diverse identities often underrepresented on stage and hidden in the real community,” said co-star Antony Makhlouf.
Produced by PYT Fairfield, PICKLED is part of Belvoir’s 25A initiative, which supports independent and emerging artists. This initiative allows creators to produce and market their show with full box office proceeds and free theatre space, fostering the development of future artistic talents.
“PYT Fairfield is uniquely positioned to reflect the diverse and intersectional identities of Western Sydney,” said PYT Fairfield Director, Jacqueline Hornjik. “For 37 years, we have been dedicated to responding to our community’s needs.”
“Now, more than ever, it is crucial to amplify these stories nationally, ensuring our stages authentically represent the 10% of Australia’s population residing here.”
Combining theatre with the themes of legacy, tradition, and queer identity, PICKLED offers a powerful and engaging theatrical experience full of laughter, reflection, and cultural exploration.
Co-Directors: Hayden Tonazzi, May Yousif | Featuring: Antony Makhlouf, Najee Tannous | Set Designer: Soham Apte | Lighting Designer: Elyse Drenth | Composer & Sound Designer: Chrysoulla Markoulli | Dramaturg: George Kemp | Movement Dramaturg: Martin del Amo | Cultural Dramaturg: Alissar Chidiac, Hussein Kahil (Arab Theatre Studio) | Stage Manager: Cindy Cavero | Concept: Najee Tannous | Story Creators: Najee Tannous, Antony Makhlouf, Hayden Tonazzi, May Yousif, Francesco Pelli
PICKLED
Downstairs Theatre – Belvoir Street Theatre, 25 Belvoir Street, Surry Hills
Season: 20 August – 8 September 2024
Information and Bookings: www.belvoir.com.au
Image: Najee Tannous and Antony Makhlouf star in Pickled – photo by Teniola Komolafe