Fry’s take on a tragic problem
UK writer/actor Richard Fry will bring his latest show, The Ballad of the Unbeatable Hearts, to Australia in February and March. While those of us on the east coast will miss out on seeing the show – at this stage, it’s only booked for limited seasons in Perth and Adelaide – Fry is eager to spread the production’s message, dealing with the tragedy of gay youth suicide, further afield.
“This is a subject very close to my heart,” Fry told the Star Observer. “I have recently performed the show in the UK and US where it was received brilliantly.”
With suicide one of the leading causes of death among young gay people, Fry poses many difficult questions – what would happen if we saved these young men and women? If we harnessed their talents and energy? What if we gave them a reason or a focus?
“Although the show deals with suicide and the difficulties faced growing up gay, it is very funny,” said Fry.
“The main focus is on what can happen if young gay people get the encouragement and reassurance they need, what they can achieve with the right support. It’s an incredibly uplifting piece of theatre, but with a heartbreaking sting in its tail.”
The Ballad of the Unbeatable Hearts plays at Perth Town Hall from February 13-18, www.fringeworld.com.au, and Higher Ground, Adelaide, from February 24-March 18 – www.adelaidefringe.com.au
info: www.richardfry.org
Photo by Steve Ullathorne.
