The award-winning theatre collective Pony Cam is set to make waves once again with their latest production, The Orchard, a cutting-edge adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s classic The Cherry Orchard.
Known for their irreverent and genre-defying approach to theatre, Pony Cam will bring their signature blend of social commentary, whimsy, and raw energy to the Beckett Theatre at Malthouse from 5–16 August 2025.
A Fresh Take on a Timeless Classic
Following the success of their acclaimed original works Burnout Paradise (RISING) and Grand Theft Theatre (Melbourne Fringe Festival), Pony Cam’s co-creators and performers—Claire Bird, Ava Campbell, William Strom, Dominic Weintraub, and Hugo Williams—are turning their attention to Chekhov’s final masterpiece. The Orchard reimagines the Russian playwright’s tale of social upheaval, loss, and the clash between tradition and progress, bringing it into a contemporary context that feels closer to home.
This playful, post-modern interpretation will explore themes of doomed inheritances, economic instability, and environmental collapse, all delivered with Pony Cam’s trademark mix of sincerity and absurdity.
Pony Cam Collective shared their excitement:
“We can’t wait to invite audiences into The Orchard. While we will be visiting a distant estate in Russia, our Orchard will be much closer to home. One that is torn between doomed inheritances and impossible expectations. There will be real indecision, real failure, real gambling, cheap champagne, and a dangerous proposition.”
Malthouse Welcomes Pony Cam Back
Malthouse Executive Producer & CEO Vivia Hickman expressed her enthusiasm for the production:
“Pony Cam is hot property in theatre right now, for good reason. They have an almost uncanny ability to tackle the important issues in our zeitgeist with equal parts sincerity and whimsy. We are delighted to have the company back in the building, this time as part of our 2025 season, and can’t wait to see what poignant splendour they transpose into the world of Russia’s most famed playwright.”
A Cult Following for a Unique Collective
Since their formation in 2019, Pony Cam has built a devoted following for their instinctive, physical, and highly spirited approach to theatre. Their works are as thought-provoking as they are hilarious, driven by a desire to reimagine their impact on the world, find joy in community, and laugh in the face of tragedy.
Described as “frenetically uproarious” by Time Out, Pony Cam’s productions defy formal conventions, ensuring that no two works are ever the same. With The Orchard, audiences can expect a bold, boundary-pushing experience that captures the essence of Chekhov’s original while making it unmistakably their own.
Performance Details
- What: The Orchard by Pony Cam
- Where: Beckett Theatre, Malthouse, Melbourne
- When: 5–16 August 2025
- Tickets: Available now via Malthouse Theatre
Don’t miss the chance to experience this daring and innovative adaptation of a literary classic. With Pony Cam at the helm, The Orchard promises to be a theatrical event that is as poignant as it is unforgettable.
The Orchard will run Tuesday 5 August to Saturday 16 August 2025 at Malthouse Theatre. Tickets are on sale via malthousetheatre.com.au