Jason Forrest
Jason Forrest is an Australian director, creative and educator working across theatre, film and performance internationally. A recent graduate of NIDA's Master of Fine Arts (Directing), his practice centres on inquiry-led collaboration, performer agency and rigorous process. With three decades in the arts, Jason brings depth, clarity and a distinctly human approach to contemporary storytelling.
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Recent Projects
- The Red Shoes
- Mary Stuart
- Burnin’ Up
- No Particular Order
Drama Education
- Cosi (2022)
- Lost & Found (2021)
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Metamorphosis (2020)
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The Wizard of Oz (2018)
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Shakers (2017)
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The Cagebirds (2013)
ShakersTheatre 2017
A sharp, satirical ensemble work exposing gender, power and resilience in Thatcher-era Britain.
Year: 2017
Role: Director / Facilitator
Category: Theatre (Drama Education)
Institution: Fintona Girls’ School
Source text: Shakers by John Godber & Jane Thornton
Set in the glitzed-up interior of Shakers cocktail bar — the newest and supposedly most fashionable venue in town — this production peeled back the veneer of glamour to reveal a world of frustration, exploitation and simmering rage. Despite the polished décor and performative cheer, neither the patrons nor the women who serve them are truly happy.
The play follows four waitresses — Carol, Adele, Nicky and Mel — who use humour, role-play and biting satire to push back against demanding customers, indifferent bosses and disappointing relationships. Through heightened theatrical moments, the performers fluidly shift roles, portraying men and women alike, and expanding the world of the play to include the lives of other working women across London.
This doubling of roles becomes a powerful dramaturgical device, exposing the economic and social prejudices affecting women beyond the walls of Shakers. Tart-tongued, irreverent and politically charged, the production balanced comedy and anger, offering a kaleidoscopic portrait of working-class resilience in post-industrial Britain.