It has been more than 10 years since the iconic Misogyny speech by the 27th Prime Minister of Australia. And, as was predicted by those attending parliament that day, history was made.
Julia Gillard’s justifiable anger at the shocking misogyny she had experienced during her leadership exploded into a speech which has survived the test of time. Since then, the speech has inspired thousands of renditions through social media platforms, with some TikTok videos reaching more than 100,000 views.
The Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) has proudly partnered with international songwriter Karen Jacobsen for a new stage production, Misogyny Opus.
Misogyny Opus, composed by Ms Jacobsen, transforms Julia Gillard’s historic speech (word for word) into a ground-breaking composition that will debut at the MECC late February.
Ms Jacobsen remembers the first time she heard the iconic speech by Julia Gillard.
“I was living in New York City and noticed many friends in Australia posting the video link to this speech,” Ms Jacobsen said.
“The impassioned delivery had me take notice,” she said.
“I felt totally compelled to set it to music.”
The performance will be supported by musicians from Queensland Symphony Orchestra and will premiere at the MECC in February, the week before International Women’s Day.
Manager MECC and Events Andrew Bobeldyk said this year’s International Women’s Day theme was ‘Embrace Equity’.
“This theme and the timing is very fitting for this premiere and we couldn’t be happier to host it at the MECC,” Mr Bobeldyk said.
Ms Jacobsen is a life-long performer and is also well known to Mackay audiences. She grew up performing in the Mackay Eisteddfod before gaining international fame as the voice of Siri. Ms Jacobsen appreciated her years at school here in Mackay.
“I performed every year at the Mackay Eisteddfod in many sections at the Theatre Royal, and the phenomenal school musicals at North Mackay Primary and North Mackay High School,” she said.
“Some incredible teachers have guided me along the way, including Mrs Kathryn George, Mrs Tziolis and Mrs Pam Jensen.”
Audience members are advised there are two performance times available.
What: Misogyny Opus – Not Now, Not Ever
When: Friday 24 February 2023, 11am (student performance) 7.30pm (official premiere)
Where: MECC Auditorium
Tickets: www.themecc.com.au
Image: Karen Jacobsen speaking of Misogyny Opus during a recent networking event hosted at the MECC
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