Blackbird: Controversial and taboo - Blak Yak Theatre’s latest production

Blak Yak Theatre’s production of Blackbird will touch on taboo and controversial subjects when it plays in Subiaco this November and December. Written by Scottish author David Harrower, the play revolves around a meeting between a young woman and middle-aged man 15 years after they had a sexual relationship – when she was just12. Director Dean Schulze said the story explores why the woman comes back into his life, looking at whether it is for revenge, closure or to re-kindle what used to be there. “No audience will agree,” he said. “I saw the play done in Melbourne and was mesmerised, sitting in my chair for five minutes after it had finished as it went through my mind. “If a play stays in your head for some time after seeing it, that’s a sign of a very good play – and this is one of those plays. “I bought the script and read it numerous times because it’s a great piece of writing.” Blackbird was partly-inspired by the crimes of sex offender Toby Studebaker, a former US Marine who abducted a 12-year-old British girl in 2003, after grooming her via the internet and was then jailed for 4½ years. Schulze described difficult, challenging theatre – such as Blackbird – as potentially great theatre and he wants to ensure people go on the same journey he did when he first saw the play. “My main challenge is keeping the audience captivated for 90 minutes with just two actors, which is no easy task but what’s needed,” he said. “The other task is to ensure the writing isn't lost with poor direction of the actors.” Schulze brings a wealth of experience to the project with more than 20 years as an actor and director in Perth theatre, mainly working with Playlovers and the Graduate Dramatic Society. He directed Dinner for Playlovers in 2006, coming in third for best director at the annual Finley Awards, and was named best actor for his role in Art at the Old Mill Theatre in 2007. Blackbird plays at.8pm on November 19, 20, 21, 26, 27 and December 3, 4 and 5 at the Subiaco Arts Centre’s Studio. Tickets are $18, $14.50 concession – book through BOCS on 9484 1133 or www.bocsticketing.com.au.