Forget what you think you know about country blokes – Big Ol’ Bruce is a bold new comedy that challenges stereotypes and delivers big laughs.
Written and directed by multi-award-winning playwright, director, actor and singer Brett Lane, the play debuts at Act 1 Theatre in Strathpine this month.
Brett said Big Ol’ Bruce was an action/comedy inspired by the song Macho Moisturiser by Australian bush band, The Pigs.
“It’s about a rough and tumble kind of bloke who secretly has a skincare routine, and when word gets out, action and hilarity ensue,” Brett said. “The moment I heard it, I immediately saw it on stage, so I started writing this play.
“Act 1 Theatre has been my creative home for the past three years, and with the support of Debbie and Andrew, I’ve had the chance to bring this vision to life on what I honestly think is the best community theatre in Brisbane.”
Set in the rough town of Mt Isa, Bruce is a no-nonsense bloke with a secret discipline, shared only with his partner Jeannie. When a brawl at the B&S ball sparks a grudge match with local troublemakers, his quiet strength is put to the test.
Breaking Stereotypes and Celebrating Character
“It breaks stereotypes,” Brett said. “Most ‘blokey blokes’ are thought of as pie-eating, beer-drinking rednecks. Bruce can wrestle a croc with his bare hands if he has to, but he’s also unashamedly aware of the importance of looking after oneself.”
The lead roles of Bruce and Jeannie are played by Dan Stanton and Renee Thomas.
“Bruce needed to be the ‘biggest man in town’ and Dan embodies that,” Brett said. “Jeannie needed to be sweet but with bite…Renee nails that balance.”
Brett also praised Talon Chorlton, who plays the main antagonist.
“He probably has the biggest character arc in the play, and I needed someone who could show jealousy, drunkenness, anger, sorrow and humour,” he said. “Talon hits every one of these notes with authenticity.”
Big Ol’ Bruce is Brett’s third play, with the first two based on personal experience.
“The challenge here is no one knows this story yet,” he said. “I’m asking the audience to trust me completely. But the advantage is I have total creative freedom. I can shape characters, character arcs, rhythms and humour in a way that’s authentic rather than second-hand.”
Brett said that he hoped people would leave the show thinking about how stereotypes don’t reflect the real person.
“And as for emotion? I’d love the audience to feel free enough to go through it all – laughter, curiosity, affection, some discomfort, empathy and joy – all in one night!” he said.
Big Ol’ Bruce
- Friday, 7 November – Saturday, 22 November
- ACT 1 Theatre
- 238 Gympie Road, Strathpine
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