Shalom Andrews is thrilled to return to the Phoenix Theatre with her debut play, Lurking. Photo: Jordan Roach.
Shalom Andrews feels her life has come full circle as she prepares to present her debut play at the Wollongong theatre where she honed her craft as a drama student.
A creative arts graduate of Wollongong University 30 years ago, Shalom’s debut comedy-drama, Lurking, follows a young receptionist working at a regional RSL, who tracks down her birth mother, a property executive in the CBD.
She becomes her mother’s assistant to covertly spy on her, without revealing their relationship.
The play satirises office politics and delves into critical issues such as sexual harassment in the workplace, cybercrime and domestic violence.
Lurking will open at the Phoenix Theatre in Coniston on Friday, 25 October.
“My time at Wollongong holds many fond memories,” Shalom said.
“The Phoenix Theatre, then known as Bridge St Theatre, was where we honed our technical skills and enjoyed performance opportunities.
“I remember as a drama student being so excited to be working alongside professional actors.
“Now, I feel so fortunate to have reunited with my former Wollongong University lecturer, Dr Janys Hayes, who has championed Lurking since its first draft in 2018.
“Staging my play at the Phoenix feels like I’m coming full circle.”
Following her creative arts degree, Shalom pursued further studies in arts management and later earned a law degree from UNSW.
Fellow Wollongong University alumnus Lillian Woods will direct Lurking.
“I’m eager to delve into the layered complexities of Lurking and am excited to bring the work to life,” she said.
“I enjoy the challenge of creating theatre that is dynamic and reactive to the here and now.’’
The cast includes Sarah Ballantyne, Ursula Dar and Ben Dewstow.
The Phoenix Theatre, which recently celebrated its 100th production, is next to Coniston Station.
Lurking runs from 25 October to 2 November. Tickets are $20/$25; visit Phoenix Theatre for bookings.
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