Author Helen Garner attended the opening night of the stage adaptation of her 2008 novel, 'The Spare Room,' which is based on her 'unforgettably dreadful' three weeks caring for her dying friend, Jenya Osborne. Garner found watching the play, which depicted the raw emotions including anger and power struggles, helped her resolve something internally. She discussed the criticisms she faced for the novel's anger and praised Judy Davis's 'shattering' portrayal of her in the adaptation.
Helen Garner reflects on the ‘three worst weeks of my life’ caring for a dying friend
Helen GarnerBooksAustralian booksStageAustralian theatreCultureJudy Davis
AI Summary
TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️Author Helen Garner attended the opening night of the stage adaptation of her 2008 novel, 'The Spare Room,' which is based on her 'unforgettably dreadful' three weeks caring for her dying friend, Jenya Osborne. Garner found watching the play, which depicted the raw emotions including anger and power struggles, helped her resolve something internally. She discussed the criticisms she faced for the novel's anger and praised Judy Davis's 'shattering' portrayal of her in the adaptation.
- 1 Jenya Osborne died (2006)
- 2 Helen Garner's novel 'The Spare Room' published (2008)
- 3 Helen Garner attended opening night of 'The Spare Room' stage adaptation (last Wednesday, June 11, 2025)
- 4 Helen Garner in conversation with Jennifer Byrne at Belvoir (Monday evening, June 16, 2025)
- Helen Garner found resolution after watching the play.
- The novel and its adaptation sparked discussions about anger in caregiving.
- Judy Davis's performance was 'shattering' for Garner.
What: Author Helen Garner reflected on her experience caring for a dying friend, Jenya Osborne, and how watching the stage adaptation of her novel 'The Spare Room' helped her process the 'three worst weeks of her life.'
When: Opening night last Wednesday (June 11, 2025, assuming article published June 17, 2025); conversation on Monday evening (June 16, 2025); novel published in 2008; friend died in 2006; film adaptation of 'Monkey Grip' in 1982; novel 'Monkey Grip' in 1977.
Where: Sydney (Belvoir St theatre), Melbourne (cancer clinic).
Why: Garner found the experience of caring for her dying friend 'unforgettably dreadful' and watching the stage adaptation helped her resolve something internally. The play's artistic director was drawn to Garner's frank depiction of an older woman's rage.
How: By attending the opening night of the stage adaptation of her novel 'The Spare Room' at Belvoir St theatre and participating in a conversation with Jennifer Byrne.