The Forwards — Shock Therapy Productions and Zeal Theatre

Overview

The latest play to hit Brisbane Powerhouse's stage is certain to kick a big bag of goals — and cast aside the laughable idea that sports and arts can't get along. After showing at Gold Coast's Bleach* Festival earlier in the year, The Forwards brings the footy field to Brissie's theatre scene in a tragicomedy about a great game, and the game of life.

In an effort written by Zeal Theatre director and founder Stefo Nantsou, and performed by award winning company Shock Therapy Productions, The Forwards introduces audiences to their new favourite team: the Pintoon Parrots. Their town is abuzz after they make the grand final with the help of star forwards Rabbit, Hoges and Tractor, but all that revelry has repercussions. Raucousness and rivalry, mateship and mayhem, violence and envy, booze and bickering — expect all of the above.

"It's not a bunch of characters sitting around talking about their problems," says Nantsou. "It's people doing what they do — kicking a ball, dancing to a band down the pub, going to parties, being in dangerous situations, holding secrets, cheating, gambling, raising hopes and disappointing loved ones."

Image: Garth Ledwidge.