Top Girl was written in 1982 by Caryl Churchill and looks at how women can succeed by looking to fictional women, past and present, through the lens of Thatcherite politics. It has been described as one of the great plays by many critics. Of the 2019 revival at London’s National Theatre, Aleks Sierz wrote:
“…Top Girls is her masterpiece of masterpieces. Yes, it’s that good. It proves, if proof were needed, that she is clearly the best living British playwright.”
The plot focuses on Marlene who has been offered a substantial promotion and celebrates with a lunch that is attended by historical, fictional women. They give their perspectives on ambition and maternity issues, helping to externalise Marlene’s life choices; she gave up her illegitimate daughter and has adopted male traits to rise through the ranks. The play is non-linear, so the guests also turn out to be Marlene’s relatives, colleagues and clients.
Community spaces that host events may make use of flyer printing to distribute details around the neighbourhood.
Top Girls is showing at Bradshaw Street Community Hall in Essendon on Thursday 10th September, from 7.30pm until 10.30pm. Tickets cost $25. Attendees are invited to bring their own food and drink if they wish.