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'Inspired by the best-selling, award-winning memoir by Caribbean-Australian writer Maxine Beneba Clarke, The Hate Race is an unflinching exploration of the complexities of race in Australia, and the universal search for belonging. Making its theatrical premiere on the Malthouse stage, this powerful story stars Zahra Newman (Wake In Fright), who embodies all characters from the book with astonishing honesty and theatricality.
'The Hate Race follows Maxine’s childhood in Sydney’s western suburbs, as she navigates the sting of otherness. From everyday street encounters to schoolyard battles, Maxine’s story exposes the realities of growing up the child of Black migrants in a predominantly white society. This inventive re-imagining, filled with poetry, music and beats, invites audiences to experience Maxine’s world —exposing biases, challenging societal norms, and asking us to foster empathy and understanding as we seek an inclusive future.
'The Hate Race is more than a theatrical experience—it is a call to action. This is how we change.'
Production Details
Presented by Malthouse Theatre and performed at Beckett Theatre, Southbank Victoria : 23 February - 17 March 2024.
Co-Directors: Tariro Mavondo and Courtney Stewart.
Dramaturg: Declan Greene.
Cast: Zahra Newman.
Set and Costume Designer: Zoe Rouse.
Lighting Designer: Rachel Lee.
Composer and Sound Designer: Dan West.
Publication Details of Only Known VersionEarliest 2 Known Versions of
'Zahra Newman is chameleonic. Onstage at Melbourne's Malthouse Theatre, she oscillates between portraying a child, a father, a teacher, and a grandmother, seamlessly shifting from one to the next. It's mesmerising to watch.' (Introduction)
'Maxine Beneba Clarke’s The Hate Race became an instant Australian memoir classic when it was published in 2016. This month, the moving coming-of-age story about racism and belonging graces the stage of the Malthouse Theatre. In this interview, the award-winning poet, author and playwright talks about the process of adaption, collaboration and the freedoms of the theatrical form.' (Introduction)
'Zahra Newman is chameleonic. Onstage at Melbourne's Malthouse Theatre, she oscillates between portraying a child, a father, a teacher, and a grandmother, seamlessly shifting from one to the next. It's mesmerising to watch.' (Introduction)
'Maxine Beneba Clarke’s The Hate Race became an instant Australian memoir classic when it was published in 2016. This month, the moving coming-of-age story about racism and belonging graces the stage of the Malthouse Theatre. In this interview, the award-winning poet, author and playwright talks about the process of adaption, collaboration and the freedoms of the theatrical form.' (Introduction)
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