Synopsis
JOANNA MURRAY-SMITH, THE GUARDIAN, 31 JULY 2008
"My intention in writing The Female of the Species was to devise a lively, funny play about feminism, among other things, and more specifically, about the legacy of those second-wave feminists whose courage, stamina and occasionally infuriating intellect have changed society for ever."
“This latest gem from the pen of one of Australia's most outstanding playwrights was inspired by Germaine Greer's experience of being held captive in her country house in Essex in 2000.
Thirty years ago Margot Mason, pioneer of the 1970s Women's Liberation movement and fearless academic, wrote her groundbreaking work and numerous best-sellers followed. Now she has writer's block. Molly, an unannounced visitor and committed fan of Margot and her work, offers a potential solution - until Molly produces a gun and calmly informs Margot that she intends to kill her because she blames her for warping her mother's mind and ruining her life with her hit book The Cerebral Vagina.
Joanna Murray-Smith's deliciously wicked comedy deftly walks the tightrope between satire and farce proving the female of the species is not only deadlier, but funnier than the male.”
A feminist farce that tickles the intellect as well as the funny bone, Female of the Species was inspired by a bizarre real-life event. In 2000, feminist icon, author and academic, Germaine Greer was held hostage in her own home by a 19-year-old student. Australian playwright, Joanna Murray-Smith fictionalised that incident with the key theme being: what if our idols fail to live up to our expectations? If that sounds too serious, then rest assured that even the playwright herself could not resist the humour that insisted on imposing itself on the situation. The result is a very funny 90-minute experience that gets you thinking while laughing out loud. Such a balance requires deft direction and a cast who can handle the playwright’s signature rapid word play while remaining true to their character”
