While many of us have been using lockdown to learn TikTok dances and bake sourdough, it's thought Shakespeare used plague-induced time-outs in the 15th-century to work up King Lear, Macbeth and maybe Anthony and Cleopatra too.
No pressure, hey? Well, we might not all match up to the Bard, but Griffin Theatre Company sure as hell thinks we can have a go and get a little creative in the process. Launching the cute #WorldsAStageChallenge, Griffin has cried havoc and let loose the dogs of drama.
The idea’s simple: set yourself up on whatever stage comes to hand – be that your Romeo and Juliet-style balcony, atop your dining table, amidst the weeds of your unruly backyard or in the salubrious surrounds of your lime-scaled shower – and perform a snappy lil' bit from your fave play. And sorry, Shakes, but you get bonus points for keeping it Australian.
Whether your audience is your so-tired-of-you partner, your confused fur baby, or bemused besties on Houseparty, it doesn’t really matter. Sing it to the mirror if you must. All you have to do is have a little fun with theatre that gets your spirits high or dives you into the emosh zone. Then, share the video on whatever social platform floats your boat tagging it with the hashtag #WorldsAStageChallenge
The Griffin crew wholeheartedly believe that now, more than ever, we need to make some noise and celebrate the power of great theatre together. And if you can tip a bit in to help them get back to their stage while you cut loose on your improvised one, all the better. Whether it's $10 or $10,000, by donating to Griffin, you’re proving that Australian stories matter, as well as supporting the next wave of Australian playwrights, performers and creatives.
This article is supported by the Judith Neilson Institute for Journalism and Ideas
