PORTRAITS OF MODERN EVIL
In the winter of 1942, Melbourne's shadowy streets were the scene of three brutal stranglings by the elusive Brown-Out Strangler. These killings took place as World War II wore on to its bloody climax and as Melbourne was invaded by its allies: an army of hard-drinking American soldiers living loudly and lewdly.
Portraits of Modern Evil imagines what might have happened if two men on whom the war left an indelible mark had crossed paths: Albert Tucker, one of Australia’s greatest modern painters, and Eddie Leonski, better known as Australia’s first serial killer. Filled with haunting images, this is a surreal and frightening tale.
First produced by Black Swan Theatre Company in Perth, Western Australia, in 2008.
'... a brilliantly dark look at society during war … Confronting, thought-provoking and full of talent – all that good theatre should be.' Anna Locke, Australian Stage Online, 7 Sept 2008
'… the writing is accomplished: poetic lines that encapsulate Tucker's vivid, colour-obsessed view of the world are interspersed with strong dialogue.' Victoria Laurie, The Australian, 11 Sept 2008