New NZ play about the changing definition of family

New NZ play about the changing definition of family, expectation, and the power to make family for oneself.

AN UNFLINCHING INTER-GENERATIONAL PORTRAIT OF THE EXPECTATIONS WE HAVE FOR MAKING FAMILY IN-BETWEEN BIRTH AND DEATH.
“Family will always be there….”
Wellington, February 7, 2018– Define “family.” Biological or chosen, this response is inherited, changes with time and place, and most comes under evaluation when “family” leaves us lonely.

BLOOD RELATIVE is a solo dramatic re-telling by trans non-binary performer Ren (of the award-winning “Ze”: queer as f*ck!), featuring their former self as married lesbian “Michelle,” Michelle’s staunch evangelical mother Edith, and beloved grandmother Mildred in the days surrounding Mildred’s death. Over the course of a few months, Michelle is faced with losing her one unconditionally loving family member Mildred, and discovering the degree of her infertility due to endometriosis (an inherited trait). As Michelle and Edith care-take Mildred, Michelle struggles with her expectations and disappointments of biological bonds. In the shadow of death and disconnection, she must examine her remaining power and possibility to define and make “family” for oneself.

BLOOD RELATIVE is Ren’s third solo show following the success of “Ze”: queer as f*ck! Zir Productions developed out of “Ze,” as a live performance production company committed to creating connection “beyond all binaries.”

Written and Performed by Ren Lunicke
Original Production directed by Stuart Devenie
Photo by Megan Bowers-Vette

*they/them gender neutral pronouns are used where referring to Ren (post-transition) and she/her pronouns where referring to Michelle (pre-transition).
Dates & Times:

17 & 18 March, 6:30-7:30pm (60 min version)
BATS Theatre, Propeller Stage
1 Kent Terrace, Te Aro 6011
Tickets: $13-$18

17 & 18 March, 1:00-2:15pm (full 75 min version)
Gryphon Theatre
22 Ghuznee Street, Te Aro 6011
Tickets: $10-$20

© Scoop Media