7 - 11 July

PURSUING PLEASURE

Written by Piera Dennerstein

Directed by Olivia Charalambous

“Welcome to all my secrets”

Opera singer turned curvaceous cabaret cantatrice Piera Dennerstein shares the intimate truths of her body and mind in this sexy, silly and deeply human show for soprano and piano.

Using the exceptional versatility of her voice in everything from Puccini to Cardi B, Piera tells the story, with humour, sincerity and hope, of her experiences forming her values and beliefs as she recovered from the toxicity of the opera industry and partner abuse. The work explores how leaning into the pleasurable - demonstrated in the operatic and sensual - as long as it causes no harm to others, is a powerful political act. In exposing all, Piera hopes to provide those who have survived rejection and oppression an opportunity to feel seen, find hope, and have a much-deserved giggle.

Developed through Whitehorse City Council and The Round Midsumma Residency Program. Toured thanks to receiving funding from Creative Australia through the Australian Cultural Fund.

★★★★★ - PERTH HAPPENINGS | ★★★★ – FRINGEFEED | “Piera Dennerstein’s vocal capacity ... is extraordinary” – STAGE WHISPERS | “Powerful ... vibrated the windows and added fervour ... magnificent” – THEATREPEOPLE | “The angelic voice of incomparable soprano Piera Dennerstein rises and fills the room” – WHAT DID SHE THINK