THEATRE ROUND UP: Margaret Thanos and steve j. spears

Margaret Thanos directs A Mirror by Sam Holcroft at Belvoir St Theatre to glowing reviews. Margaret was Belvoir’s Andrew Cameron Fellow in 2024 - 2025, and now a Resident Director this production marks her mainstage debut.

“Director Margaret Thanos draws out the ideas and the humour in this layered piece of meta theatre. Her clear, confident hand means there’s never any confusion about which layer is being evoked at any moment.” ★★★★1/2 Sydney Morning Herald

“Margaret Thanos’ direction is taut and intelligent, refusing to let the audience settle into comfort.” ★★★★ The Scoop

“A Mirror is stimulating theatre.” ★★★★ Limelight

Running until 22 March 2026 at the Upstairs Theatre, Belvoir St Theatre. Photo by Brett Boardman.

steve j. spears’s The Elocution of Benjamin Franklin returns to the stage at Griffin Theatre Company marking 50 years since its premiere in 1976 starring Gordon Chater. It went on to become an international success, touring three continents and winning three OBIE Awards including Best Play Off-Broadway in 1979 and the AWGIE Award for Best Play in 1976. Griffin’s production is directed by Artistic Director Declan Greene, starring Simon Burke in the role of Robert O’Brien.

“Make no mistake: this is among Australia’s greatest plays” ★★★★ Sydney Morning Herald

“Playwright Steve J. Spears was in his early twenties when writing The Elocution of Benjamin Franklin, but the play reveals an understanding beyond his years of human nature, its social performance, and how to manipulate and manifest it on a stage.” ★★★★1/2 Limelight

“Simon Burke AO delivers a performance of remarkable depth and emotional acuity in his portrayal of Robert.” ★★★★ Suzy Goes See

Running until 29 March 2026 at Griffin Theatre Company (Downstairs Theatre, Belvoir St Theatre). Photo by Brett Boardman.