Coup d'Etat
riverside theatres & nida parade playhouse, november 2011
Kuala Lumpur, 1988. While investigating a devastating act of constitutional violence, American lawyer Juliet Elms Morton discovers a world of dazzling beauty, rich pageantry and sacred ritual, forcing her to review her beliefs about Islam, faith, justice and the circumstances surrounding her father's brutal murder. Coup d'Etat is at once a political thriller, a brilliant examination of cultural differences and an indelible, unforgettable portrait of an extraordinarily diverse nation.
Written by Justin Fleming; Directed by Suzanne Millar; Lighting Design John Harrison; Sound Design James Colla; Costume Design Sonia McAlpine; Producer John Harrison
Cast Cat Martin; Donald Sword; Felino Dolloso; Renee Lim; Shingo Usami
“This is a riveting political thriller that had the audience listening intently on the edge of their seats. It is an explosively powerful play... under the scintillating direction of Suzanne Millar... this gripping, enthralling work forces us to question and examine the very fabric of contemporary society.”
“One of the most political and raw plays I have seen performed in the Sydney theatre scene… hugely exciting.”
“A credit to the director Suzanne Millar. Coup d’Etat is one of the year’s most pleasant surprises... an evening of deeply compelling human drama and electrifying philosophical debate.”
“This fine production, directed by Suzanne Millar, is textured, rich and immediate. It is bright, fast-paced and colourful, conveying the beauty of Malaysia through effective staging and a beautifully simple set design... Coup d’Etat is a very important play.”
“This theatre production was one of the best I have seen in my life.”