Oleanna by David Mamet

A fresh new look at an American Classic: David Mamet’s Oleanna to Challenge Audiences in Vancouver this May

VANCOUVER – Acclaimed Metis actress, Jill Goranson, and legendary South-African actor, Paul du Toit, to grace Vancouver stage in a fresh look at American classic, Oleanna by David Mamet. Directed by internationally established stage director Cristiana Ripeanu.

The incendiary drama Oleanna, by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright David Mamet, is sure to ignite conversations at The NEST on Granville Island from May 1st to 11th, 2025. Presented by Exact Resemblance, this new production explores the complexities of power, privilege and politics within academia.

Originally written in 1992, Oleanna remains fiercely relevant, reflecting today’s ongoing discourse around power imbalances and communication breakdowns. The play follows an intense, escalating conflict between John, a university professor, and Carol, his student. What begins as an academic discussion quickly spirals into a catastrophic power clash, culminating in devastating consequences for both.

Paul du Toit remarks: “This play is an actor's dream: Machine gun-fire dialogue and a thrillingly dark plot. At once, shocking, funny and searingly intelligent. I have waited a long time to play this part and I am deeply grateful. To have it be my theatrical debut in Vancouver, makes it truly special to me.”

“Oleanna will be my first two hander, and I’m so excited to tackle it! This play is like running a marathon, having a tennis match and playing on a jungle gym at the same time. Playing Carol is no small feat, yet I can’t wait to bring her to life in my own way!” says Jill Goranson.

Oleanna will be playing at The NEST (1398 Cartwright St, 3rd floor, Granville Island) from May 1 to 11, 2025.

Tickets and further information can be found at: www.exactresemblance.com