Shaw role has political edge

Former Koorliny Arts Centre performer Emma Shaw will mix funny, sexy and sad this spring, as the personal and political come together in Limelight Theatre’s latest show.

Written by David Hare and directed by James Hough-Neilson, Skylight'''' is a contemporary classic that holds a mirror to a divided society in a night of reunion and recrimination.

On a bitterly cold London evening, school teacher Kyra Hollis (played by Shaw) receives an unexpected visit from former lover Tom Sergeant, a charismatic restaurateur recently widowed.

The two attempt to rekindle their once passionate relationship — only to find themselves locked in a dangerous battle of opposing ideologies and mutual desires.

Acting since 2004, Shaw has appeared in numerous shows with the Koorliny Arts Centre, Playlovers, Stirling and Limelight theatres, Knuts and other independent companies around Perth, including performances at Fringe World.

“Kyra is a complex character who is grappling with conflicting ideas and motivations,” she said.

“She is kind, but stubborn, and wants to make a difference in the world.

“She dearly loves Tom but is not sure if that’s enough because they have quite different priorities and notions about the world.”

Shaw recently appeared in the WA premiere of Disney’s The Little Mermaid and Victorian thriller Gaslight and was named best actress in a leading role at the Limelight Theatre awards for her roles in The 39 Steps last year.

“Skylight has played on the West End and Broadway with talented casts, which gives you an idea of the play’s calibre,” she said.

“You can sympathise with all the characters and understand where they are coming from.”

Director James Hough-Neilson said Skylight was something of a debate play, akin to George Bernard Shaw’s work.

“It prompts us to consider our own places and choices as inhabitants of a crowded world – it is a psychological drama,” he said.

Skylight will plays at 8pm September 22, 23, 24, 29, 30 and October 1, 6, 7, 8.

For more information, visit www.limelighttheatre.com.au.