JENNIE!

Written by Bruce Shearer

7th – 18th August 2024

JENNIE! was a co-production between Melbourne Writers’ Theatre & Gasworks Arts Park. It was a sell-out season that was enriched by the participation of a number of community groups. JENNIE! was presented in partnership with the exhibition ‘Growing up in Port Melbourne 1920 – 1940’, facilitated by the Port Melbourne Historical & Preservation Society (PMH&PS). Here is the show summary:

JENNIE!
Rebel. Radical. Revolutionary

Driven by her desire for a fairer society, and passionate about improving conditions for women and children, Jennie Baines arrived in Port Melbourne in 1926 and made her mark in no uncertain terms! She also left behind a powerful and enduring legacy.

Marli van der Bijl (Hamlet, Les Miserables) brings Jennie Baines to life in JENNIE! She is joined on stage by popular stage and TV performer Amir Rahimzadeh (The Heights, Neighbours) as ‘George Baines’, and talented local actors Lucy Norton (‘Dorothy Hill’) and Tristan Sicari (‘Tom Hill’) in this compelling historical drama that draws you into the world of this remarkable suffragette, immersing you in the sights, sounds and streets of the working-class neighborhood Jennie fought to protect – and the children she vowed to save.

The latest production from Melbourne Writers’ Theatre, JENNIE! has been created in partnership with the Port Melbourne Historical & Preservation Society and Albert Park College, with talented young drama students Ivy Glenfield and Joshua Johnston landing the roles of feisty siblings ‘Marianne’ and ‘Fred’. 60 minutes.

THE CAST

Marli van der Bijl
Amir Rahimzadeh
Lucy Norton
Tristan Sicari
Ivy Glenfield
Joshua Johnston

THE CREW

Playwright Bruce Shearer
Director Karyn Lee Greig
Set Designer Ishan Vivekanantham
Sound Designer Sharyn Brand
Lighting Designer Natalia Velasco Moreno
Stage Manager Barbara Yazbeck
Dramaturg & Producer Clare Mendes