Jonathon Biggins take aim at the news

Right: John Waters. Photo by James Green

The relationships that bind modern journalism, the justice system, and the political establishment come under acerbic scrutiny in Talk, written and directed by Jonathan Biggins. Sydney Theatre Company’s latest new play, which explores how the 24 hour news cycle is spurred on by the influence of social media, plays at Sydney Opera House from 23 April to 20 May 2017, followed by seasons in Belrose and Canberra.

John Waters, in his first role at STC in more than a decade, plays John Behan, a rampaging radio talk-back host who fills the airwaves with a daily diet of moralising opinion. As he and his producer Belinda (Valerie Bader) learn that his words have major personal consequences, newsrooms across town go into overdrive.

On her first day as Acting Editor of the city’s major tabloid, Julie (Hannah Waterman) is determined to get the story that will sell, while over at the national broadcaster, retiring newsman Taffy (Peter Kowitz) has one final tale of his own to tell. But without the right platform, is anyone going to listen?

This fast-paced, darkly humorous play also features Helen Christinson, Paige Gardiner, Lucia Mastrantone, Kenneth Moraleda, Andrew Tighe and Ben Wood

Box Office: 02 9250 1777. www.sydneytheatre.com.au