HOLDING
THE MAN
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9 Mar – 14 Apr 24 Upstairs Theatre
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2 hours 20 mins (incl. 20 min interval)
The love story which defined a generation, and a classic of the Australian stage, in a brand new production.
At a Jesuit boys’ school, in 1970s Australia, Tim’s eye falls on the footy captain, John. To their mutual incredulity, they fall in love. A love that lasts as they — and the society around them — change, mature.
When they both test positive to something called HIV, dreams, liberations, boundless possibilities vanish into the ether. But Tim and John have each other, and they’ll need to hold on tight for what’s to come.
Deeply felt, frank and moving, Tim Conigrave’s memoir of living and dying changed Australia. Tommy Murphy’s 2006 adaptation became an instant hit, and brought a new audience to this heartfelt and laugh-out-loud-in-the-sadness story of queer identity and the quirks of love.
Tim’s book is more than a memoir, it’s a social history of our country told through the love and lives of a gay couple – particularly that vanishing time of the 70s, 80s and 90s. Tommy’s adaptation is joyful and bold and crying out for a new production as we reach the thirtieth anniversary of Tim’s death. And these two actors are perfect, perfect for it. It feels right to return it to the Sydney stage so we can remember what we lost and remind ourselves what we found. – Eamon
IN THE ROUND SEATING, ON-STAGE SEATING
To bring Holding The Man to life, we’re transforming Belvoir yet again!
Some seats will be available opposite the usual seating banks – and the seating will be couches! There will also be one couch of three seats available for audience to purchase tickets to, which will sit in front of one of the seating banks.
SEATING OPTIONS AND TICKET PRICES
Patrons sitting on couches will enjoy reduced ticket prices.
Seating on stage (in the round) will include a mixture of 1, 2 and 3 seat couches. All tickets are seated – your usher will show you to your correct seat.
Full price tickets for couches and tables start from $55 and concession tickets start are $45. All tickets for couches are $40 for previews.
IMPORTANT DETAILS
Length of time
Patrons will be seated on stage for the entire run of the performance, which is approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, with an interval. Ushers will be on hand to assist you to and from the seating both before and after the performance, and during interval.
Participation
Patrons will not participate in the performance unless they have explicitly agreed to beforehand. The nature of live theatre, however, means that nothing is guaranteed, although we will try our best!
Sound & lights
On-stage patrons will experience bright stage lights. Please keep this in mind before purchasing on-stage seating.
Cloak your stuff
We recommend you cloak your personal belongings at box office before the show commences. Bags and jackets will not be permitted on stage.
Access
If you have queries about accessibility and sitting on stage (such as the comfort of the couches – which will likely be lower than typical theatre seats), please contact Box Office on (02) 9699 3444.
Belvoir Staff
Belvoir staff will be on hand to direct you to your seat on stage and answer your questions.
