In this new Australian comedy Scott, an Olympic swimming star, has behaved badly and fallen out of favour with the media and the public. He hits rock bottom when his motivational speaking engagements are cancelled. His manager concocts a scheme to mend his tarnished image. The plan is that he will offer to help a depressed teenager with an exercise regime which will cheer him up and then the details will be leaked to the media. The boy is not at all enthusiastic and the plan seems doomed until an unexpected twist averts a tragedy.

Underneath its humour, The Role Model has some intriguing ideas for us to consider. Our sports stars have an elevated status with the public and media, yet it seems not a week passes without another revealing unpleasant truths, asking for forgiveness and promising to mend his ways. Embedded in the story also are many of the issues and dilemma’s connected with the treatment of depression.

The Role Model was winner of the 2006 Theatrelab open award and was workshopped with internationally renowned playwright Edward Albee at N.I.D.A.

James Doolan as Scott ,

Denise Kuchmar as Wanda,

Wil Ridley as Adam,

Stephanie Osztreicher as Louise

Angus Brown as Jack.

Set and Costume Design: Naomi Wong,

Lighting Design: Patrick Gooden

Reviews

http://www.aussietheatre.com/revrolemodel.htm

http://onstagemelbourne.blogspot.com/

http://www.stagewhispers.com.au/reviews/role-model-bruce-hoogendoorn

James Doolan, Denise kuchmar &Stephanie Osztreicher