Melbourne's PlayBox Theatre is presenting John Romeril's Love Suicides.

Love Suicides was inspired by the 18th Century playwright Chikamatsu Monzaemon, considered the 'Shakespeare of Japan'.

This production is a mix of puppetry, mime, dance and text, adapted by Romeril from Chikamatsu's work, in collaboration with some of Australia's leading theatre, music and puppetry artists. This theatrical collaboration seamlessly blends Australian and Japanese sensibilities to produce an epic stylisation in the operatic form.

Paris is bankrupt and returns to his home-town of Perth. Ohatsu, a modern woman, resists plans for an arranged marriage. They meet and the attraction is instant, but prejudice, family honour and a fear of public disgrace threaten these 'star-crossed lovers', forcing them to reject a life that is not on their terms.

Season opened November 7 and Love Suicides is running till December 6. Bookings 03 9685 5111. Venue: Malthouse Theatre 113 Sturt St. Southbank . --By Peter Kemp
Austalian Correspondent