By Samuel Beckett
Directed by Petra Kalive
The inimitable Judith Lucy takes on the role of Samuel Beckett’s Winnie, the determined optimist in the face of an endless existential crisis. Acclaimed as one of the best plays ever written, Happy Days is an absurdist, tragicomic tour-de-force – that just happens to be a pitch-perfect commentary on our times.
Buried up to her waist, but never questioning why, Winnie is determined to carry on as best she can. Awoken by a piercing bell, she begins her day with a prayer before waking her husband, Willie. Willie does not share Winnie’s predicament, but he is just as stuck. Despite the unrelenting sun and the limitations of her current – and eventually, sinking – situation, Winnie remains adamant that this is a happy day; these are all happy days.
A 20th-century classic, Happy Days was written more than 60 years ago but has never been more resonant, its absurdity acutely reflecting our reality. Making her Melbourne Theatre Company debut, actor and comedian Judith Lucy will team up with director Petra Kalive (Laurinda), making this Beckett masterpiece wildly funny, and not to be missed.
1st May, 2023
10th June, 2023
Recommended Age: 16yrs+ Warning: Contains mature themes, sexual references and references to suicide.
Wheelchair access is via the front entrance on Southbank Boulevard. There are lifts to all levels. The foyer offer tables and chairs at wheelchair height, and a low bar service area.
GETTING TO THE VENUE
BY TRAM: For routes travelling up and down St Kilda Road (1, 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 and 72) you can alight at the Arts Centre stop and walk to Southbank Theatre. Route 1 goes down Southbank Boulevard, and stops on Sturt Street just outside Melbourne Recital Centre (located next to the Southbank Theatres).
BY TRAIN: Southbank Theatre is within easy distance of Flinders Street Station. After exiting the station, walked south down St Kilda Road.
BY CAR: Wilson Parking has multiple paid options available: Roverside Quay, Southgate, Eureka or Flingers Gate car parks. Please note, these are paid carparks.
★★★★★ "Beckett's humour was at it's dark zenith when he wrote this in 1961." - The Age
"Happy Days remains one of the most unsettling and unforgettable plays in the modern canon." - The New York Times
Writer: Samuel Beckett
Director: Petra Kalive
Cast: Judith Lucy, Hayden Spencer
Unfortunately, tickets for this event are no longer available.
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