An award-winning solo show exploring homosexuality, society and shame in 1960s Australia, laced with the words of Shakespeare.

A University Office, 1962: homosexuality is illegal. Junior lecturer, William O’Halloran, has been dismissed from his probationary position. His secret is out.

As he packs up his beloved belongings, William recalls the defining events that led him to this moment. Time is ticking away. His wife Lola is due to arrive any minute. And the curtain will soon rise on the student union production of Romeo and Juliet.

But Shakespeare’s tale of star-crossed lovers isn’t the only forbidden love story on campus. And the leading man knows this all too well…

The Will To Be is an exploration of Australia’s queer history, societal shame, and a defiant cry to speak truth to power.

Winner of a Best Theatre Weekly Award at the 2020 Adelaide Fringe, and hailed as ‘a masterful performance’ (Stage Whispers) and ‘compelling and must-see theatre’ (Melbourne Observer).

Written, performed and co-produced by Mark Salvestro

Co-produced by BCauseArts

Sound design by Steve Carnell

Set Design by Carmody Nicol

Costume Design by OIiver Ross

Stage Manager April Erskine

Lighting Designer Lachlan McLean

Photography by Sare Clarke

Content warning: Sexual references, not suitable for persons under 15 years of age.

BCauseArts logo

Tickets also available at www.midsumma.org.au