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A new Australian play sheds light on a lesser-known chapter in the life of one of the country's most celebrated authors. The Kingdom of Eucalypts written by Alice Spigelman and directed by Moira Blumenthal, delves into the post-My Brilliant Career years of Stella Maria Sarah Miles Franklin, offering a complex portrayal of the writer's struggles and controversial political affiliations.
Set in 1930s Sydney, the play depicts Franklin's return to Australia after years abroad in Chicago and London. Despite her earlier success with My Brilliant Career, published when she was just 21, Franklin finds herself grappling with writer's block, financial difficulties, and a sense of failure. Living with her elderly mother and unable to recapture her former glory, Franklin's frustration becomes a central theme of the narrative.
The production explores Franklin's involvement with the Australia First movement, a nationalist group that drew inspiration from fascist ideologies emerging in Europe at the time. This aspect of Franklin's life is likely to provoke discussion, as it contrasts sharply with her better-known identity as a feminist, suffragist, and activist.
Dramaturg Timothy Daly has worked alongside Spigelman and Blumenthal to shape this nuanced portrayal of Franklin. The play introduces audiences to Inky Stephensen, a publisher who becomes a pivotal figure in Franklin's life during this period. Their shared passion for developing a distinct Australian cultural identity forms the backdrop for Franklin's gradual alignment with more extreme political views.
The Kingdom of Eucalypts raises questions about the complexity of historical figures and the contexts that shape their actions. It challenges audiences to consider how a champion of women's rights and Australian literature could be drawn to ideologies that now seem at odds with her legacy.
The play's exploration of themes such as national identity, the struggle for artistic recognition, and the allure of extremist ideologies in times of personal and societal upheaval resonates with contemporary discussions. It invites reflection on the nature of fame, the pressures faced by writers, and the political climate of pre-World War II Australia.
As the namesake of one of Australia's most prestigious literary awards, Miles Franklin's influence on the country's cultural landscape is undeniable. This play adds depth and complexity to public understanding of the author, potentially encouraging a re-examination of her works and legacy.
The Kingdom of Eucalypts represents a significant chapter in modern Australian theatre, tackling a challenging subject with nuance and historical context, engaging with a thought-provoking portrayal of one of Australia's most enigmatic literary figures.
Venue: Bondi Pavilion Theatre
Season: 30 Oct - 17 Nov
Tickets available from $20*
Preview tickets for October 30, 7pm performance $60
Tickets Full $85 | Seniors $70 | Concessions & under 30 $50
Student $20
* +booking fee
Tuesday 11am & 7.00pm | Wednesday 7.00pm | Thursday 11am & 7pm |
Saturday 7.00pm only | Sunday 2.00pm & 7.00pm
Tickets and more info: https://events.humanitix.com/the-kingdom-of-eucalypts
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