Creating theatre across countries and across generations – Jo Clifford and Bayley Turner

When Jo Clifford wrote ‘Sister Death’ the original plan was to perform the piece as part of Melbourne’s Midsumma festival with Director Kitan Petkovski. But when Kitan suggested Jo try an international and intergenerational collaboration with Melbourne performer Bayley Turner, ‘Thirty-Six’ was born.

About Thirty-Six: An empowering and cathartic new work from the award-winning team behind ‘The Gospel According to Jesus, Queen of Heaven’ and ‘The Inheritance’ So there’s this party she’s having. It might be a funerary rite or a birthday celebration, depending on your perspective. Either way she’s wearing the dress, her first lippy, and she’s making a special meal. The flowers keep coming and the candles get blown out. An international collaboration between two transgender writer/performers, UK legend Jo Clifford (‘The Gospel According to Jesus, Queen of Heaven’) and local emerging artist Bayley Turner, 36 explores the complex relationship gender diverse people have with aging, mortality, grief and growth. Directed by Kitan Petkovski (‘The Inheritance’), with set and costume design by Bethany J Fellows and lighting design by Spencer Herd.

Performed at the Midsumma Festival in Melbourne, Australia from 21 Jan – 2 Feb 2025.