Don's Party: bawdy, boozy landmark Aussie play on show

A boozy, lusty evening could be a standard Friday night out – but it’s actually the core premise of Melville Theatre’s latest production, set against the backdrop of the 1969 Federal election. Written by acclaimed Australian playwright David Williamson and directed by Jeff Hansen, Don’s Party explores relationships and middle-class morality in the late 1960s. While the party of the play’s title is to celebrate a win by Gough Whitlam over John Gorton – which becomes less and less likely as the evening goes on – inhibitions (and clothes) soon fall to the floor as more and more alcohol is consumed. First performed in 1971, it was made into a 1976 film starring Graham Kennedy, Graeme Blundell and Ray Barrett, directed by Bruce Beresford. Hansen chose to direct Don’s Party because he wanted to stage something with popular appeal, after directing the critically-acclaimed and Finley Award-winning The Return. “Don's Party ticked all the boxes, being well-known, a great piece of Australian literature, and very funny,” he said. “While the '69 federal election is the setting for Don's Party, it actually has very little to do with politics. “A working knowledge of the political landscape at the end of the '60s is not a prerequisite to enjoying or understanding the play. “While there are passing references to the progressing vote count and who may lose which seat, Don's Party is a play about relationships. “The morals of the day might seem out of place in modern times but the central themes of mateship and relationships are timeless.” Don’s Party plays at 8pm, July 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15 and 16 with a 2pm matinee on July 3. 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.