MARA

Written by Hanna Pyliotis

A fearless retelling of the Cinderella story – from the stepmother’s perspective. Single mother of two Mara struggles to find work, before marrying a wealthy widower. Her new husband still grieves his first wife, buried under a cherry blossom tree in the garden – a tree whose branches tap relentlessly on Mara’s window at night. tap. tap. tap…As Mara’s dreams unravel, a tragic chain of events is unleashed. A solo play using live music, foley and song that gives humanity to this childhood bogeywoman, challenges stereotypes about a woman’s capacity for both great love and great cruelty, and demystifies the universal role of the stepmother.

Perfomance History:

La Mama Explorations Festival (2024, Melbourne)). Touring in 2026.
Supported by : Stepfamilies Australia, Lab Kelpie inc, Hepburn Shire Council, Centre de Creation, Maison Jacques Copeau

Directed by Megan Jones
Performed by Aurora Kurth
Music by Ania Reynolds
Song Lyrics by Hanna Pyliotis
Vocal Coaching by Susan Heywood
Costume by Emilie Bloom and Liz O’Toole
Tissue Puppets by John Nolan
Creative Produced by Lyall Brooks

“Aurora Kurth is a natural comedian with huge stage presence and a singing voice that could charm birds from trees.” – Cameron Woodhead, The Age

“Ania Reynolds shows a stunning display of musicality” – Nicole Precel, Sydney Morning Herald