Family passions run deep in heartwarming tragi-comedy

They say blood is thicker than water – but, in some families, past resentments run deep and only bubble to the surface during times of tragedy. That’s the underlying theme of Crimes of the Heart, written by Beth Henley and directed by Sue Lynch at Melville Theatre this May. Following the story of the Magrath sisters, the siblings re-unite at their family home in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, after one of them – Babe – shoots her abusive husband. Described by some as a tragic comedy, Crimes of the Heart was made into a 1986 film with Diane Keaton, Jessica Lange and Sissy Spacek. “Babe’s sisters Lenny and Meg have to find a lawyer, discover the truth and work out a way of saving their sister from both smalltown prejudice and the law,” Lynch said. “It all sounds dramatic, and often is, but this is also one of the funniest plays I know and the story of these characters is both heartwarming and charming.” Reading the script several times over the past few years, Lynch says she has always loved the play but has been so busy with other projects that it’s only now she is able to bring it to the stage. “Each time I read it, I’m struck by how real the characters are and how funny the dialogue sounds,” she said. “Once I had people on stage reading during auditions I knew it was as good as I had expected.” Crimes of the Heart plays at 8pm, May 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20 and 21 with a 2pm matinee on May 8. Tickets are $17, $13 concession – book on 9330 4565 or email melville.theatre.company@gmail.com. Melville Theatre is on the corner of Stock Road and Canning Highway, Palmyra. More information is available at www.meltheco.org.au.