Audio described "Julia" at Circa

In 2012, Julia Gillard delivered a speech that ricocheted across Australia, New Zealand and around the world. Now, the woman and the moment is brought to the Circa stage in "Julia" with an audio described tour on Sunday 21 June.

This gripping one-woman show puts us inside a very public storm, and reveals the life and career that led to it. From idealistic young advocate to leader under relentless scrutiny, "Julia" takes us behind the microphone of the landmark “misogyny speech” and steps into the personal, political and socio-cultural forces that forged it.

Blending real excerpts with scenes inspired by true events, this is more than one leader’s story. It’s a sharp, human look at how we judge power, how we listen to women, and what we demand of those who lead us.

Against a backdrop of progress and pushback on gender equality, "Julia" takes on fresh resonance here in Aotearoa. It draws the line between conviction and compromise, private life and public duty. And it asks what it costs to stand your ground and say “not now, not ever” in a world that still questions women who lead.

“Julia is an intoxicating and fascinating experience that hits something deep and resounding within us.” – Time Out

“It builds like a storm.” – Sydney Morning Herald

“Julia is a shining example of theatre as a powerful medium for change.” – Stage Whispers

Note: This play is a fictional imagining inspired by real events and public materials. It includes references and extracts from published works and interviews. Julia Gillard has not endorsed or contributed artistically to this production.

Written by Joanna Murray-Smith
A BRAVE Theatre production

Performed by Lara Macgregor
Directed by Mel Dodge

Sunday 21 June: 3pm pre-show touch tour and 4pm Audio Described Performance
Access tickets $25pp plus free for a companion/whānau. Service dogs are welcome.