Theatre lovers are in for a treat at this year’s Melbourne Fringe Festival with Chasing Dick: A Love Story. This unique and heartwarming play, which challenges traditional ideas of love, identity, and family, has already begun its run at Theatreworks in St Kilda, with only a few performances left. Don’t miss your chance to catch this compelling production before it ends on October 12th.
A Bold Story about Love and Identity
Chasing Dick: A Love Story tells the tale of a cisgender white father, affectionately known as a “zaddy,” and his bisexual son, who both fall in love with a captivating trans woman named Dick. As they navigate their complex feelings, the father and son’s relationship is tested, leading them to question everything they thought they knew about love, family, and themselves.
This play, however, isn’t just about romance; it’s about breaking boundaries and exploring identities in ways that defy social expectations.
The Creative Vision Behind the Play
Chasing Dick comes from the creative mind of Dax Carnay-Hanrahan, the driving force behind the TayoTayo Collective. Dax is known for addressing challenging issues surrounding gender, identity, and sexuality through her work. In this latest production, she aims to bring an authentic portrayal of trans lives to the stage.
“All these men, cis people, talk about trans lives as if we are not in the room,” Dax explains. “This play invites us to break moulds, explore authentic selfhood, and embrace a love that defies conventional norms. I aim to uncover how trans voices are frequently misrepresented and appropriated to fit others’ narratives.”
An Acclaimed Artist with a Bold Vision
Dax Carnay-Hanrahan is no stranger to the theatre scene. She’s the creator of the Trans/Scripts series, with past works such as Transwoman Kills Influencer and The Six Guys an Immigrant Transperson of Colour Will Date in Melbourne. Dax’s work has received critical acclaim for its humour, emotional depth, and raw honesty.
Recently recognised as the Filipino Non-Binary Creative Powerhouse by Timeout.com and named Best Performer in a Play in Melbourne for 2023 by Broadwayworld.com, Dax continues to push boundaries with Chasing Dick. This play also marks her first writer’s commission for the Festival of Australian Queer Theatre, where it had a staged reading in Ballarat this past August.
A Team of Talented Creatives
The production is co-directed by James Lau and Dax Carnay-Hanrahan, with a talented cast that includes Dax Carnay, Matthew Richard Walsh, and Luke Visentin. The team is supported by a diverse group of LGBTQIA+ creatives who bring authenticity and passion to every aspect of the production.
In the words of Justine Javier Long, the show’s producer: “Dax’s commitment to this project is nothing short of inspiring. Her strength in the face of challenges speaks volumes about the importance of this story and the impact it will have on audiences.”
A Story of Courage and Resilience
Just one week before the premiere, Dax Carnay-Hanrahan was diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy, a condition that affects the muscles on one side of the face. Despite this challenge, Dax chose to move forward with the production, determined to bring this important story to life.
“The timing of this diagnosis is far from ideal, but this story is too important not to be told,” Dax shared. “I’ve always believed in the power of theatre to challenge societal norms and to give voice to those who are often marginalised. This condition will not stop me from doing that.”
Her bravery and determination have only added to the anticipation surrounding the play.
How to See the Show
Chasing Dick: A Love Story is in its final days at Theatreworks, located at 14 Acland St, St Kilda. Here are the remaining showtimes:
- Thursday, October 10th at 7:00 PM
- Friday, October 11th at 7:00 PM
- Saturday, October 12th at 4:00 PM
- Saturday, October 12th at 7:00 PM
To book tickets, visit the Melbourne Fringe website or call (03) 9660 9666.
A Story You Don’t Want to Miss
Chasing Dick: A Love Story promises to be a transformative experience, combining humour, emotion, and bold themes that challenge societal views on love and identity. As Dax Carnay-Hanrahan continues to break down barriers in the arts, this play is a must-see for anyone interested in powerful storytelling and LGBTQIA+ representation.
For more information and updates, follow TayoTayo Collective on their social media channels:
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