Girl at the Bottom of a Well is a poignant one-man transmasculine fairy tale delving into themes of grief, isolation, and euphoria. In this evocative narrative, a banished and abandoned protagonist finds solace and transformation in the depths of a well, awaiting a safe moment to emerge into a new reality.
Lost in the timeless abyss, our protagonist, referred to as ‘girl’, navigates the shadows on the well’s walls, crafting an alternate existence where they can fully embrace their authentic self as ‘he’.
Through a mesmerising fusion of poetic language and physical expression, the play explores how the pain of isolation can paradoxically become a source of healing and joy, emphasising the indispensable role of authenticity in the journey of survival.
Written and performed by Henry Kelly, whose previous works include the acclaimed Call Me By Your Dead Name, this production marks his sophomore solo endeavour following his recognition in the 2023 MTC Cybec Electric Readings and the Midsumma Festival Queer Playwriting Award Showcase for HELL FIRE, mortal boys.
Teaming up once again with director George Lazaris, known for his recent role as Assistant Director for MTC’s “Cyrano”, Kelly brings together a diverse creative team, including sound designer Beau Esposito, to delve into the nuanced complexities of gender and identity formation.
Girl at the Bottom of a Well offers audiences a thought-provoking exploration of the socially constructed nature of gender, while also providing glimpses of the euphoria that can arise from moments of isolation and introspection within the trans experience.
The play runs from 12-16 June at La Mama’s Courthouse Theatre in Carlton. Tickets are on sale now.
