A significant change seems to have occurred in society whereby public displays of intolerance or even loathing now appears to be acceptable - depending upon the recipients.
A theatre full of first-nighters at a musical is not the place you would expect to make this discovery, but it was evident from the audience response at two new shows in Melbourne - Six and 9 to 5 - or at least at the performances I attended.
Both shows are welcome additions to theatre. One is a rocking rewrite of history involving the wives of Henry VIII and the other a more modern musical take on the 1980s movie that starred Dolly Parton. Although different genres, there is a common, commendable message: make way for the modern, independent woman.
The celebration of women, the need for equality and respect are at the heart of both of these shows.
In a pivotal song of 9 to 5, a central character concludes she does not need a man. It is poignant acknowledgement she is no longer dependent on her faithless dolt of a husband. Instead of applauding the performance or the point of the song, it set off what felt like a raucous celebration of misandry from the woke in the audience.
There were similar moments in Six. Both shows are excellent, the audience response less so. Respect is a two-way street.
