James Graham’s Ink is the final production of the Theatre Guild’s landmark 85th Season and will open at the University’s intimate and unique Little Theatre October 12th at 7:30pm. Ink is a theatrical adventure that delves into the world of journalism, media, and the birth of the infamous British tabloid newspaper, The Sun. Bringing this complex story to life presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities, both of which excited co-Directors Robert Bell and Rebecca Kemp. The story of Ink is a fictional telling of a factual event, and as Murdoch states in Ink, “All the best stories are true.”
Co-Directors Bell and Kemp have embarked on a journey of collaboration in bringing Ink to the stage. Their partnership underscores the significance of synergy in theatrical direction; their shared vision for the production is essential, ensuring a cohesive narrative and coherent artistic expression.
“It’s spooky how alike we think about certain things,” says Kemp. “But after a decade of friendship we really know each other well. We know how the other person thinks and operates and we leverage each other’s strengths and fill the gaps of the other.”
The cast plays a pivotal role in the success of any production. For Ink, finding actors who can embody the complexity of characters like Rupert Murdoch and Larry Lamb was a no-brainer for the co-directors. They have assembled a dynamic ensemble with diverse experience who were all were open and collaborative in bringing both real and fictional characters to life. “I’ve worked with many of the actors in Ink throughout my journey as a performer in Adelaide,” says Bell. “I’ve learnt so much from them and their guidance, but I feel throughout Ink it has been a real example of ‘you never stop learning’.”
Robert and Rebecca were able to bring together a talented crew as well, coaxing Normajeane Ohlsson out of retirement to design their incredible set, local musician Phil Short to compose original music, plus a host of other talented individuals taking on the enormous task of stage managing, lighting, and dressing the show.
Ink explores the themes around the power of media, the ethics of journalism, and the blurred lines between news and entertainment. Themes still relevant for today’s audiences. It does so with the exact same ideas that The Sun employed in 1969 – humour, shock, sex, and drama. It’s sure to make audiences laugh, gasp, and resonate with them long after the final bows.
Directing Ink has been a complex and rewarding endeavour. The show is hilarious and also packed with gripping moments that tell one hell of a story.
A story good enough for the front page.
Ink plays at the Little Theatre 12-22 October
Tickets are available from trybooking.com/CECXJ
On Dit 