Enter the Mad Forest of the Romanian Revolution

Theatre goers will be in for an emotional journey when the University of Southern Queensland's (USQ) second year actors present Mad Forest.

Written by award-winning playwright, Caryl Churchill, Mad Forest, is the journey of two families joined by the engagement of their children and their experience of the 1989 Romanian Revolution.

Using direct quotes from the era, the powerful play tells the story of ordinary people living in extraordinary times. In doing so it captures the triumph of the human spirit to struggle bravely in the hope of freedom from tyranny.

Director Kate Foy said the emotionally captivating production had an effect on her from the first time she saw it.

'I remember seeing the play shortly after the events and was very moved by it. It made me think ‘Would I have done what many did—just go home to watch on TV what was happening outside my window, or would I have been one of those who joined in?' she said.

The naturalistic acting and the moving story about real people and how they coped in this crisis will be highlights of the performance.

Associate Professor Foy chose the play in part because of the talented playwright and also because of its suitability to the group of actors.

'It suits the students. You have to measure your cloth before you cut it.

'The roles will challenge the actors. They have to speak Romanian, speak English with a Romanian accent, and speak English in their own Australian dialect.

'This production will be their transition from the acting class into the performance arena. They will be creating a character or sometimes creating several characters. To play two or three believable characters well is always a challenge.'

Associate Professor Foy said the production would give audiences a chance to experience the work of the second year actors.

'It's a fine play and a wonderful opportunity to meet ‘Company 2008' - the students who will be back in Romeo and Juliet for SiQP Festival next year.

'It's great for those who like to follow the actors through their development and into their careers,' Associate Professor Foy said.

'Senior students will find it theatrically interesting especially those studying drama,' she said.

Audiences can preview the production on Thursday 10 May at 7:30pm in the USQ Arts Theatre. The season then continues on the 11, 12, 18 and 19 May, with matinee performances on Thursday May 17 at 11am and Sunday May 20 at 2pm.

For more information and to book visit www.usq.edu.au/performancecentre or call the USQ Box Office on (07) 4631 1111.

Media Contact: Jane Urquhart, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2559