The Sydney Theatre Company's Next Stage 2011 season has kicked off in a major way, with the first play Before/After opening on Friday down at the Wharf Theatre in Walsh Bay. Next Stage is the STC's "artform development strand" - kind of like the little sister who gets to dance around the garden in a glittery dress and show the grown-ups what she can do - allowing emerging writers, performers and directors to prove that they belong on the professional stage. In this same spirit of artistic innovation, Before/After seems like the perfect work to be opening with. Before/After is a collection of 51 short scenes from the lives of over 30 different characters in the one hotel, exploring the construction and fragmentation of identity and community. In one room a woman begins a sordid affair. Elsewhere, a couple argue about the careers of Hollywood screen sirens as an elderly woman finds herself so shocked by a glimpse of herself in the mirror that she is rendered motionless. The play incorporates large-scale projected imagery and live video, captured on the actors' palm-sized cameras. And to really tempt you, each ticket comes with a free Little Creatures beer. And nothing is better in summer than a free beer and a little air-conditioned entertainment. Concrete Playground has five double passes on offer for a performance on Saturday, 12th February at 5pm. To win, simply subscribe (if you haven't already) at www.concreteplayground.com.au, then email us at hello@concreteplayground.com.au to go in the running.