AustLit

Although not a re-creation of real life events, The Stones is loosely based on the 1994 killing of a motorist by two Melbourne youths who were throwing rocks off an overpass. The subsequent manslaughter trial and issues raised inspired the authors to create a semi-fictional account of the lead-up to the incident and the consequences of the boys' actions on that night. The play is therefore the story of a ten year relationship between friends who are continually trying to out-do each other and who are hooked on the thrills of dares and danger. The play explores this competitive behaviour and recklessness which results first in damage and destruction, and eventually the death of a man travelling in the wrong place at the wrong time.

The play was written by Nantsou and Lycos after extensive research and the assistance from the Victorian Police Force. It is performed by two actor/musicians who play the two boys and two detectives. The actors are required to switch quickly between characters and instruments. The use of loud electric music, a Zeal Theatre tradition, is again used to help establish an 'informal-style' production.

'Burnt is a bush yarn, born and bred out of the true stories of people from regional Australia struggling with prolonged dryness. It looks at the stresses and strains of continued drought on families and young people.'

(Source: publisher's blurb)