Ophelia is a walking tragedy, her fate dictated by circumstances of misfortune, grief and naivety. She is the unwanted daughter of a loveless, tumultuous marriage - grappling with her identity amidst the crucial teenage years. Enter Hamish; an aloof, mysterious older boy with a penchant for chaos and eyes for Ophelia. He drags her into his underworld, and slowly erodes her agency, identity and prospects for the future.

This modern tale of codependent relationships explores themes of coercive control and emotional abuse in young relationships, shedding light upon these important themes.

This modernised adaptation of William Shakespeare's classic text "Hamlet", explores the role of the tragic heroine, Ophelia. In the original text, Ophelia exists solely for the furthering of the male narrative, and once she has been expended, she dies. O, Ophelia takes control of the tragic narrative and brings life and agency to this otherwise two dimensional female character.

Amber Grossmann is a young theatre maker, and the artistic director of Overall Arts. She is also currently a writer in residence for JUTE.

The creative development of O Ophelia is a coproduction between JUTE Theatre Company, and Overall Arts. This 5 day process will see a mix of creatives from across Queensland come together to interrogate the work, with the goal of Mainstage Production & publication.

‘This project was made possible by the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund, provided through Regional Arts Australia, administered in Queensland by Flying Arts Alliance.’

Contact the host of O, OPHELIA - Creative Development Showcase