Williamson is Australia’s most prolific playwright. His vast body of work includes classics such as Don’s Party, The Removalists, The Club and Travelling North.

Birthrights, although published in 2003 and described as a ‘bittersweet play about motherhood’, explores many themes which are very relevant today. When Helen (Francesca Radice) discovers she is unable to have children, her career-driven sister Claudia (Rebecca Sharples) offers to be the surrogate mother.

 

The play addresses the ethical and emotional complexities of this act of generosity along with the impact on the sisters’ very different partners, Mark (James Chambers) and Martin (James Hunter). Kelly (Jacinta-Rose Burley), the daughter, proves to be a challenging child whilst Margaret (Sally
Bartley), the feisty mother of the sisters, attempts to smooth the waters.

Directed by Julie Bailey, Birthrights, an engaging play with strong characters and thought-provoking dialogue, promises a thoroughly absorbing and entertaining theatre experience.