Sydney Theatre Company and The Sydney Morning Herald present
The Removalists
Simmonds: I have never made an arrest in all my twenty-three years in the force, Ross. If you ever get yourself into a situation that you can’t handle without making an arrest then you may as well get out.
It’s rookie Constable Ross’ first day on the job and the Duty Sergeant is Simmonds. No amount of training could have prepared this young novice for the initiation awaiting him.
Simmonds: I’m sorry, Mrs Carter. I hate using violence on anyone, but there’s one thing I won’t tolerate and that’s a man with no respect for womanhood.
Simmonds’ unorthodox methods of policing are revealed when a young woman enters the station to report an offence. She has been beaten by her husband. Simmonds is only too happy to provide the beautiful victim with an inappropriately personal service. Woe betide anyone who tries to stand in the way of this man’s ego.
A stunning examination of the violence – actual and implied – that underpins authority, The Removalists created a sensation when it was first produced. Thirty-seven years on, David Williamson’s classic play maintains its startling power.
1 hour 40 mins, no interval
Reviews
"The early 70s play about power, complicity, masculinity, abuse and corruption stands up very well in the director Wayne Blair ’s bold, direct and uncluttered interpretation." The Sydney Morning Herald
"...a clear, faithful piece from Blair, who is gaining ground as a solid and inventive director." The Sydney Morning Herald
