Logie-winner Thomas Weatherall might have captured the nation’s hearts as Malakai Mitchell in 'Heartbreak High', but now he's breaking theatre audiences' hearts with his playwriting debut, 'Blue', now playing at Studio Underground at the State Theatre Centre of WA.
'Blue' premiered at Belvoir St Theatre in 2023 where Weatherall starred in the lead role of Mark, a twenty-something year old who, after leaving home, received letters from his mother – just checking in, staying in touch and keeping a gentle hold on her son. But Mark’s life changes forever when he receives a letter with news that no one wants to hear.
In this 2025 iteration for Black Swan State Theatre Company, Weatherall has passed the reins on to Owen Hasluck who is stepping into the role of Mark, marking the first time someone other than Weatherall has portrayed the character.
Hasluck is remarkable in the demanding piece, which is essentially a monologue. As the sole performer on stage, Hasluck delivers a raw and earnest portrayal of a young man’s journey through the depths of grief, and keeps the audiences captivated and moved throughout.
Image © Daniel J Grant
Director Ian Wilkes has adapted the production, but the new staging, lighting and set design is deeply effective. It’s minimalist and stripped back, with Mark sharing his experiences among large glass doors that bring the audience in, and at times, push them back out.
The minimalist set design, with the moody lighting and alluring soundscape by Jarred Wall create an intimate environment where audiences can feel the depth of Mark’s emotions – even when he’s hiding behind glass doors. One particular highlight of the staging is during a poignant moment in the play where Mark goes for a swim. . . The lighting and simple staging with the soundscape has audiences feeling as though they too are immersed in the action, drowning in Mark’s emotions and exhaling a relief when he is finally able too.
Weatherall’s script is a powerful reminder of the complexities of grief and the many stages it entails, and this story is told beautifully and delicately by the incredible team both on and off stage.
A brilliant piece of theatre like this doesn’t just come out of the blue.
