It's a story that will never lose its resonance, even after several decades.
The dismissal of Prime Minister Gough Whitlam by the Governor-General on November 11, 1975 is the most contentious event in Australia's political history.
And in October, it will be the subject of a new Sydney Theatre Company production that, thanks to a partnership with the Canberra Theatre Centre, will have its world premiere in the capital.
The Dismissal is one of several new shows added to the Canberra Theatre's packed 2021 program, and as sure a sign as any that life is returning to normal.
Theatre director Alex Budd announced the new program additions on Sunday, saying some would never have eventuated were it not for the pandemic.
In the case of the entertainment industry, dozens upon dozens of doors closed last year, but as 2020 drew to a close, other doors began to open.
Along with The Dismissal, the theatre will also host the satiric play White Pearl, and a revised production of The 7 Stages of Grieving, written by Deborah Mailman and Wesley Enoch and first presented in 1995.
Mr Budd also announced a new, paid residency for ACT artists, new Territory, supporting the development of new works by Canberrans.
He said it felt almost unreal to be announcing such a full program after a year like 2020.
"The entire team has achieved miracles pulling together such an incredible season amidst a continuing an unique time for the arts industry," he said.
