Getting to The Seed

It’s been years since Danny Malone last saw his intimidating father Brian, an Irishman and supporter of the IRA. Joining Danny is his daughter, Rose, a journalist intending to record the reunion of her Father and Grandfather, dicta-phone in hand.

Brian never forgave Danny for leaving his homeland to come to Australia and certainly has no sympathy for the now Vietnam war veteran.

‘Dad I need to write a play, can I ask you a few questions?’ is how playwright Kate Mulvany, began work for ‘The Seed’. It is an autobiographic sketch of her family’s story. Unfolding from a scene within her grandfather’s living room, Mulvany reveals the emotional and physical scars she bears from her family’s story.

As Brian, Max Gilles embodies the Irish grandfather’s strong character with a success one only realises when his character and the contents of his living room are torn away. Sara Gleeson plays Rose, the playwright’s stage presentation of herself. Gleeson seems to really feel the wounds of Mulvany, committing herself completely during the play’s emotional climax. Tony Martin, as estranged son Danny, adds humor and sincerity, justifying his own choices and unraveling Brian’s seemingly convincing facade.

‘The Seed’ unfolds in an elegant and engaging way, and given the hefty subject matter, there is a surprising amount of humor to be found within. Recommended.

The Seed
Venue: Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio
Season Dates: 17 February to 4 April 2012
Tickets: from $56 (Under 30s just $33)
Booking Details The MTC Theatre Box Office 03 8688 0800 or mtc.com.au
Arts Centre Melbourne 1300 182 183 or artscentremelbourne.com.au
Photo credit: Jess Busby