The Debate
From the multi-award-winning team behind GROUNDED ★★★★★ and THAT BOY ★★★★★ comes a bold, darkly funny new drama starring award-winning actor Martha Lott.
A mother sits waiting, filled with ambition and pride. Her daughter, exceptional, smart and the state’s top debater, is on the verge of national selection, a rivalry ignites that pushes motherly love to the edge. She understands the power of words; it's her job.
A campaign for success, personal ambition and political spin collide. A gripping exploration of control, morality, and the seductive power of persuasion — a mirror to our world of curated truths and competitive parenting.
Darkly comic, sharply intelligent, and heartbreakingly human, THE DEBATE asks: when every story can be spun, what chance does the truth really have?
Reviews & Fringe Feed Reacts
Thought-provoking, confronting and powerful — how far would you go for your child? - Ben Stefanoff, Glam Adelaide
The Debate is an excavation of elite privilege and parents living vicariously and viciously through their children. - James Murphy, The Scoop
a masterclass in scriptwriting and acting - John Goodridge, The AU Review
The Debate is a gripping look at control, morality and the seductive power of persuasion - Markus Hamence, OnYourMarkus
The Debate is a ‘must-see’ for parents and teenagers, and once again is an acting master-class by Lott - Jude Hines, Stage Whispers
Grist for the Mill. A must see. - Samela Harris, Barefoot Review
Presented by: Holden Street Theatres Inc. and Martha Lott
HST and Lott share a long-standing creative partnership built on a commitment to powerful storytelling and high-calibre independent theatre. They first presented the multi-award-winning production of Grounded by George Brant — a defining work that set a new benchmark for intimate, emotionally charged performance.
Following this success, Martha wrote and performed her debut original work, That Boy, a critically acclaimed, award-winning production that achieved five-star, sell-out seasons and cemented her reputation as one of South Australia’s most fearless and insightful theatre-makers.
Now, HST and Lott reunite to present a new work inspired by true stories and lived experience. Their ongoing collaboration continues to champion strong, deeply human works that resonate with audiences.
1 Venue
The Arch at Holden Street Theatres
Holden Street Theatres, 32-34 Holden Street, Hindmarsh, Kaurna
32 - 34 Holden Street
- Step-free mobility aid access through the main entrance with an accessible bathroom.
- Venue is 18+ but minors may attend with a parent or legal guardian
Suitability & Warnings
Accessibility
- High Audio Content
