The Suicide, MTC, 1981

Denzil began working as an actor in Melbourne radio in the 1950s (both for the ABC and commercial radio) then shifted his acting talents to television in the early 1960s. Upon returning to Melbourne in 1969 (from Perth), he again joined the ranks of regulars in ABC radio drama. The 1980s saw his return also to the Melbourne stage, often appearing with colleagues and friends who he had known since the 50s. His love of theatre and theatrical culture endeared him to many.

Here we see Denzil with Beverley Dunn and other members of the cast of “The Suicide”, written circa 1928 by Soviet dramatist and screenwriter Nikolai Erdman, and part of the MTC’s Season 28 in 1981. The play is an example of a type of Russian comedy known as “laughter through tears”. It was banned by Stalin.

Throughout his acting career, Denzil was attracted to portraying eccentric, comical characters, which is perhaps why he was cast in this production.