’Water off a Swan’s Back’ - A retelling of the ugly duckling

Settle in for a retelling of the ugly ducking, what happens to them after they come out as themselves and what happens when they grow up? Is it a happily every after?

We're so excited to share some amazing new radio play stories from local creatives in Naarm (Melbourne).

Script Roulette is proudly supported by Arts Centre Melbourne and Ticketek as a part of PLAY.

This episode we explore identity, how it feels to have that stripped from you and how to reclaim it. In a fantastic retelling of the ugly ducking that unpacks gender identity, family ties and how to process trauma.

If this story impacts you, check out Rainbow Door, a free, specialist LGBTIQA+ helpline. Experienced peers provide information, referral, and support to enable LGBTIQA+ people, their friends, and their families to navigate the system and access the supports they need within a safe environment. https://www.switchboard.org.au/rainbow-door

If you live in Naarm and are interested in joining the Script Roulette Collective, head to the link below and fill out the sign up form for 2025's programs!

https://www.artscentremelbourne.com.au/whats-on/2025/festivals-and-series/play/script-roulette

'Water off a Swan's Back'

Written and Directed by Persephone Waxman

Voice Actors (in order of appearance)

Persephone Waxman as Swanathon

Gabrielle Angelone as Sweenie

Sofia Morreale as Diana

Thomas Von Rein as Duckworth

Marceline Di Bartolomeo as Dr Ribbit

Mark Spencer as Geese 1

Alex Clouston & Thomas Kuhlmann as Geese 2 & 3

--

Musical score by Julian Smith Gard

Recording by Thomas Kuhlmann

Podcast assembly by Kate Lawrence

Sound Design by Thomas Kuhlmann

Podcast hosting by Finn Moseley and Thomas Kuhlmann

Interview by Evrim Şen

Co-created by Evrim Şen and Benny Redfern with support from Joshua Cowie - Creative Producer at The Channel @ The Arts Centre Melbourne

(00:00:00) Intro and Acknowledgement of Country

(00:01:34) Host introduction with Tom Kuhlmann and Finn Moseley

(00:04:40) Credits for 'Water off a Swan's Back'

(00:06:00) Our Feature Presentation by Persephone Waxman

(00:21:42) Interviews with the writer/director and creatives and host debrief with Finn Moseley