22.01.26
Dear Grif-friend,
Gus Murray here, coming to you on the set of the marketing and promo shoot for The Elocution of Benjamin Franklin by steve j. spears. As I sit in that comforting darkness of Downstairs Theatre at Belvoir (where Griffin has found its temporary home for 2026) I can actually feel my Christmas tan fading and morphing into the very particular moon tan that theatre people rock when working on a summer show. Like you, Griffin has a special place in my heart from the countless incredible nights I’ve had in the SBW Stables Theatre (and in the bar after the show). Producing the first show of the year is an exciting task and far out, it’s gonna be a good time.
The Elocution of Benjamin Franklin is going to be a moving and memorable theatrical moment for Sydney arts lovers. Not only does this one-man tour de force star one of my best mates, the iconic Simon Burke, but the entire creative team are as talented as they are fun. Tickets are flying out the door and we’re very excited for you to see how this legendary show holds up on its 50th anniversary in the very same theatre where it premiered before touring the world. Better yet, grab your ticket as part of a 2026 subscription because our second show of the year, SISTREN by Iolanthe, just won Best Independent Production at the 2025 Sydney Theatre Awards.
If you’re at Mardi Gras Fair Day at Victoria Park on Sunday 15 February, come find our Griffin stall where we’ll be spreading the word about Elocution. Say g’day to Simon Burke and tell him how much you loved watching him host Play School when you were a kid—he’s always thrilled to get that feedback! He might even do the Wiggly Woo for you. But it’s not all about The Elocution of Benjamin Franklin (sorry, Simon), the Griffs will be there all day to answer your burning questions about the 2026 Season, the Stables redevelopment, or just have a good chinwag. There might even be some cheeky discounts and prizes for those who stop by!
2026 is an incredibly exciting year for Griffin with a brilliant lineup of Australian works and an amazing new theatre taking shape before our eyes. When my producer hat comes off, my audience hat will be waiting underneath it. Can’t wait to see you throughout the year.
Bring on the fun always,
Gus
Gus Murray
Producer, The Elocution of Benjamin Franklin
