A malicious lie can destroy lives - witness the St Kilda schoolgirl scandal,
claims Richard Gere has a bizarre sex life and the urban legend Don't Worry,
Be Happy singer Bobby McFerrin killed himself.
But it's not just a recent phenomenon, as evidenced in a play from the
Judaen Theatre Company this November.
Written in 1934 by Lillian Hellman and directed by Isaac Ellison, The
Children's Hour follows two teachers who are accused by a disgruntled
student of having a lesbian relationship.
The accusation subsequently ruins the women's careers and lives.
The play is based on a historical incident in 1810, where a student alleged
two teachers at an Edinburgh boarding school were having an affair and,
within days, all students had been removed.
It has previously been made into two Hollywood films: These Three in 1935
and 1962's The Children's Hour with Audrey Hepburn and Shirley MacLaine.
"Essentially, The Children's Hour the play looks at how easily a community
can almost instantly turn against people who they once held in esteem,"
Ellison said.
The Children's Hour plays at 8pm, November 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,
December 1, 2, 3 and 4 at the Dolphin Theatre.
Tickets are $25 and $15 for students Mondays to Wednesdays and block
bookings of more than 20 - book through BOCS on (08) 9484 1133 or at
http://www.bocsticketing.com.au/whats-on/738/the-childrens-hour/
The Dolphin Theatre is located within the University of WA with entry from
Mounts Bay