Solo shows are starting to occupy a distinctive space in the Australian theatrical landscape. The origins can be discovered in oration which, through Greek theatre, is very much the foundation of contemporary western drama.
Offering a huge challenge for any performer, carrying a show by yourself for anything between 60 and 100 minutes can be the cultural equivalent of climbing Everest. There is no one else to rely on, no safety net if you forget your lines or lose your way in the narrative. It can be a nerve-racking process. To succeed, the actor needs total confidence in the piece, and it must also be meticulously directed, rehearsed and staged to make the delivery as smooth as possible.
