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Julia – Sydney Theatre Company (NSW)
By Joanna Murray-Smith. Directed by Sarah Goodes
A poignant and thought-provoking reflection on leadership and legacy returns to Sydney to finish its national tour
Reviewed by Bradley Roe
Drama Theatre, Sydney Opera House
Season 5 September – 19 October
There is no better place for Julia to make its triumphant return to Sydney than the Drama Theatre at the Sydney Opera House. This ground-breaking production, written by Joanna Murray-Smith, premiered in 2023, toured Australia, and is now making its final stop back in Sydney. This brilliant, moving and poignant production, directed by Sarah Goodes, delivers everything you would want in iconic Australian politics, and Australian theatre alike.
On October 9th, 2012, Julia Gillard delivered a speech that would become synonymous with her time as Australia’s first female Prime Minister. As Murray-Smith describes, the ‘not now, not ever’ speech displayed her command of drama, use of language and timing. Julia the play intends to lay the foundations of the speech, and the woman who delivered it.
Julia, Sydney Opera House (2024). Images by Prudence Upton
Julia gives us insights into Gillard’s upbringing, her trials, tribulations and successes, and how they contributed to the leader she became. It also allows us to look back and reflect on the Australia that was when she rose to power. It explores this with ease, and creates truly moving and hilarious moments, with the last fifteen minutes truly leaving you gobsmacked and astonished by the power of language and delivery.
Justine Clarke portrays the former Prime Minister with incredible skill. She is a powerhouse of emotion, captivation and transformation. Her ability to command the room without fault , making the audience laugh and cry in such a short time, was incredible. The highlight was her ability to completely emulate Gillard’s voice, mannerisms, and characterisation without becoming a caricature of the playwright’s muse. It would be so easy to slip into an exaggerated and mocking version of the ex-Prime Minister, but Clarke has honed her craft so well, that you believed you were watching Gillard in action. Jessica Bentley embodied the 'everywoman' inspired by Gillard's speech. She seamlessly entered, exited and transformed the stage around Clarke’s performance.
...a must-see for anyone interested in Australian politics, theatre, or powerful storytelling.
The stage was simple, yet effective and allowed for the audience to truly reflect on Gillard’s experience, and at times put themselves in the spotlight. Goodes direction was stunning, and allowed us to see the character of Julia slowly build throughout the play, with the final touch of the wig and iconic blue jacket transporting us to that day in October of 2012. This worked hand in hand with the brilliant writing of Murray-Smith and the design and composition elements of Renee Mulder the production’s designer, and Steve Francis it’s composer. All three creatives working as one to give an authentic, moving and all round sensory experience with this production.
Julia is a must-see for anyone interested in Australian politics, theatre, or powerful storytelling. Justine Clarke’s captivating performance and the sharp direction by Sarah Goodes make this production a triumph in every sense. Whether you’re familiar with Julia Gillard’s iconic speech or are new to this pivotal moment in Australian history, this production offers a poignant and thought-provoking reflection on leadership and legacy.
Don’t miss your chance to witness this stunning portrayal—get your tickets now and be part of an unforgettable theatrical experience at the Sydney Opera House.
Director Sarah Goodes
Designer Renée Mulder
Lighting Designer Alexander Berlage
Composer & Sound Designer Steve Francis
Video Designer Susie Henderson
Assistant Director Charley Allanah
Voice & Dialect Coach Jennifer White
With Jessica Bentley, Justine Clarke
Marketing image Rene Vaile
This listing is updated as cast and creatives are confirmed in the lead-up to the production, and if there are any changes to the team.
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