A Worthy Rival: Live Radio Play

Game. Set. War.

We are in a locker room before the start of a grand slam final. Two female tennis players, Victoria and Sam, are preparing to play the defining match of their careers.

They take us on their journey to becoming international tennis stars, the media’s portrayal of their rivalry, and how they have learnt to meet “triumph and disaster and treat both as the same imposter” (If, Rudyard Kipling). Victoria is a much-loved champion and this is her last chance at the title that will cement her legacy. Sam is the new guard, a new Australian Hope and an enfant terrible, going for her maiden grand slam. Two women, 12 years apart in age, eons apart in their careers.

Victoria is Sam’s idol. Sam has lost each time they have played each other. For Sam to win this match she must stop seeing Victoria as her idol and instead as her rival. Victoria must face the reality that others, just like Sam, will one day take her place as the champion. Victoria must determine whether her legacy is more than just the trophies.

Peppered throughout are the comments and opinions from coach, umpire, audience and journalists, all imposing their own narratives upon the players.

The story unfolds while we are entertained by the back and forth battle of the match Victoria and Sam are about to play.

Performed as a live radio play by 3 actors with an evocative soundscape.

An original work by Demetra Giannakopoulos.