Former Karratha midwife to star in comedy at Perth’s Limelight Theatre

Former Karratha resident Christine Smith has gone from working as a midwife at the Nickol Bay Hospital to starring in a comedy set in a converted railway carriage about doing the right thing. Written by Oscar-nominated playwright Ronald Harwood and directed by Gwen Browning, Equally Divided is a wry, humorous tale of two warring sisters squabbling over their mother’s estate. The story follows Edith — the dutiful daughter who looked after her bedridden mother — and her rich, selfish younger sister Renata, played by Smith, who attracted all the attention and various husbands but never lifted a finger to help. When the will is read, their childhood rivalries re-emerge and Edith is sure Renata will come out on top yet again. But their eccentric mother’s tempting collection of antiques may prove a tipping point, with questions soon emerging about whether honesty, like beauty, only runs skin deep. Ronald Harwood is best known for his British stage plays, such as The Dresser and Quartet, which he also adapted into films, along with other screenplays that earned him Oscar nominations. “I am a real fan because he has a gift for pinpointing our human weaknesses and dilemmas,” Browning said. “His dialogue has a particular rhythm which often reveals more than the words themselves. “The play is set in a converted railway carriage and we need to create a wide set with a shorter depth than usual to create a feeling of claustrophobia. “We also need a great many antiques to dress the set.” Equally Divided plays at 8pm March 31, April 1, 2, 7, 8 and 9 with a 2pm matinee April 3. Tickets are $23, $20 concession – book at www.limelighttheatre.com.au or call 0499 954 016 between 9am and noon, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.