My students hear those words a lot these days, whenever I need to demonstrate a particular teaching point that involves placing my voice at the disposal of sounds that combine to make words that combine to make phrases, sentences – in other words, text.

It makes a change from “the quality of mercy…” which is usually the first text that comes to mind when I am teaching – “to be, or not to be” is usually the second. There are many reasons why I choose these texts, not least being because I am so unlikely to ever be cast as Portia or Hamlet, so it’s an opportunity for me to play with these words.

You’d be forgiven for assuming that I’d never be cast as Juliet either, but here’s the thing. The Royal Shakespeare Company commissioned playwright Ben Power to create a new version of the star-crossed lovers, an elderly couple who also happen to be called Romeo and Juliet, who speak with the language of Shakespeare as they approach the end of their lives. Full Circle Theatre, a company new to Brisbane, presents “A Tender Thing” at the Visy Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse, from 9 to 18 May, and I’m playing Juliet. Linda Davey is the director, and Romeo is played by Michael Croome. Lighting design is by Matilda nominee Daniel Anderson, set design by Freddie Kompt.

“Forswear it, sight!”

This is a beautiful play.  It is also a challenging piece, demanding every bit of vocal, physical and emotion power I can find, intellectually stimulating and deeply satisfying to my soul.  I am terrified, excited and thrilled to be involved – all at the same time.

I hope you will come to see it in May. We have a relatively short run, just a week and a half, and we are so looking forward to sharing it with you.  Please spread the word. Booking are now open at the Powerhouse.

“For I ne’er saw true beauty till this night”