In The Mens

In the Mens is a collection of poignant and hilarious monologues and duologues by Melbourne playwright Kieran Carroll. It brings together Beckettian comedy, reflective contemporary naturalism, left v right political satire and the six o’clock swill bar yarn. Throughout these widespread literary influences, however, are emotional currents central to the way these characters operate. Whether comedy or drama, the men of these plays wonder how they might change things. Some are wise. Others are prone to old mistakes. There can be heavy consequences, a victory on the way or a big laugh around the corner. Moral questions abound: what it is to behave kindly and dutifully up against dreams of hedonism. What do we owe to other people versus what do we owe to ourselves? When do we give up on trying to like or tolerate somebody else? Directed with great sympathy and zeal by new Sydney director Rob Gibson (A Midsummer’s Night Dream – The Haven) and performed by Ben Maclaine (Last Of The Knucklemen, Bondi Pavilion) & David Callan (Good News Week, Water Rats ) in multiple roles, In The Mens sweeps the watcher along with both joie de vivre and harsh realization. From a gay couple disgruntled in Rockdale to a jockey dreaming of opening up a cheesecake business, to a trounced upon poet triumphing on beer and bratwurst in small town Germany amongst others, it’s a rollercoaster ride of characters who are part fantastical but could also be next door!