Death and the Maiden - Sydney Theatre Company

Overview

Death and the Maiden is a psychological thriller focusing on the aftermath of the Pinochet regime in Chile. Written in 1992, but still frighteningly relevant, Ariel Dorfman's script sheds light on the cultural and political suffocation of Chile that lasted nearly two decades. We're given insight into this historic event through his traumatised heroine, Paulina (Susie Porter).

This production, which opens at Melbourne Theatre Company before travelling to Sydney, is generating excitement because of the cultural insight provided by its Argentinian-Australian director, Leticia Cáceres. Cáceres has climbed the theatre hierarchy quickly in recent years, earning much critical praise as well as the MTC associate directorship. But even with all her successes, she maintains that this project holds particular importance. "I regard Death and the Maiden as part of my heritage", Cáceres says. "I am honoured to be able to share it with a new audience and demonstrate why this play is so tremendously important."