Kate Mulvany’s ‘The Seed’ Opens at Black Swan State Theatre Company

Kate Mulvany’s semi-autobiographical play The Seed, presented by Black Swan State Theatre Company opened last week at the Subiaco Arts Centre. The Seed first premiered in 2007, with Kate playing the lead role of Rose Maloney. The Belvoir St Theatre production toured nationally, and in 2009 landed at the Playhouse Theatre in Perth. Fifteen years later, Kate’s sister Tegan has stepped into the role of Rose. In Kate’s words “Tegan knows more than anyone what this play is about – she is Rose as much as I was. She embodies the story fully with her own experience.”

Rose Maloney is a writer ready to pen her story. Her father, Danny, is a Vietnam veteran still managing the effects of war. Danny’s father, Brian, is an IRA soldier. Today is their collective birthday. Armed with a dictaphone and a head full of questions, Rose travels with Danny to Brian’s home in Nottingham to discover where and what it is she has truly come from.

"A riveting theatrical ride" ★★★★1/2 The West Australian

“It seems fitting that Mulvany’s sister Tegan should play Rose and she handles her complex character with prowess.” ★★★★ Limelight

“Expert storytelling and sharp and witty dialogue.” Broadway World

Running until 17 November 2024 at the Subiaco Arts Centre. Image by Daniel J Grant.