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Home , Alan Ayckbourn, Bill Lancaster (Aviator), Claudette Colbert, Dennis Olsen (actor), Lauris Elms, Rex Harrison

DECEMBER, 1986 Vol 10 No 11 ISSN 0314 - 0598 A publication of the Australian Elizabethan Theatre Trust

Bartholomew John, Anna Lee, Amanda Mugglelon and Dennis Olsen in PRIVA TE LIVES Timeless Coward - Two Great Achievements

PRIV ATE LIVES and the same hotel. They meet by chance, the Hamblin completes the quartet of stars. by Noel Coward old spark is re-ignited, and, impulsively, Australian couturier, Christopher Essex, Directed by Peter Williams th9. elop~. Howeve:, a few da~s aft~r has designed the glorious Art Deco Designed by Doug Kingsman their reumon, they fmd once agam their costumes. Gowns by Christopher Essex passion alternating between love and Although BLITHE SPIRIT does not Lighting by Roger Barratt anger. The play is set in the romantic Art open until April it is offered to members Cast (PRIVA TE LIVES): Dennis Olsen, Deco '30s in the South of France and now as bookings are expecte9 to be heavy , Bartholomew John, Paris, and stars Dennis Olsen and for the short season. $9.00 discounts are Anna Lee; (BLITHE SPIRIT): Amanda Muggleton in the lead roles. available for Trust member performances Duncan, Paula Duncan, John Hamblin, BLITHE SPIRIT follows in April. of each production. Members may pur­ June Salter This play opened at the Piccadilly chase as many AETT tickets as they wish Playhouse, S.O.H. Theatre, , in 1941 when at these special performances. We're had been at war for two years. It was planning a pre-threatre dinner for Thurs­ hen Noel Coward died in March Coward's brightest contribution to day, April 2. Further details in February W 1973, his work was playing to British morale. A treasure of the piece is Trust News, but book for theatre tickets crowded theatres around the world. The Madame Arcati (to be played by June now. tributes paid to him then testified to his Salter), one of the most original and pre-eminence in the theatre, and his plays unforgettable theatrical characters. BOOKING INFORMATION and music have continued to attract Charles Condomine, the novelist, PRIVATE LIVES young and old. Next year will see the invites Madame Arcati to dinner to Thu Feb 19 to Sat Mar 28 revival of perhaps two of his greatest obtain information on psychic BLITHE SPIRIT achievements - PRIVATE LIVES and phenomena, but has no idea that the Thu Apr 2 to Sat Apr 25 Mon to Sat at 8 p.m. BLITHE SPIRIT. spirit of his late first wife will materialise. Wed at II a.m., Sat at 2 p.m. PRIVATE LIVES, which opens in While the repercussions are disastrous to AETT $19.90 (Feb 19,20 and Apr 2) at Charles and his second wife, they are February, is a dazzling, funny, gorgeous 8 p.m., Feb 20 and Apr 3 at II a.m. hilarious for the audience. Peter play which, since it first opened in 1930, $27.90 (except Fri and Sat evg) f has gone on to become one of the most Williams, the director, has persuaded G.P. $28.90 popular and successful plays in the 's most famous sisters, Carmen Pens/Stud $19.90 history of world theatre. The plot deals and Paula Duncan, to appear in BLITHE Two AETT tickets per member (except with Elyot and Amanda, once married, SPIRIT, the first time they have Feb 19, 20, Apr 2 evgs and Feb 20, Apr 3 now honeymooning with new spouses at appeared together on stage. John mats) / 2

250 1777. Bookings for individual plays Legends on Stage AO Summer Season will be offered to Trust members throughout the year · once the re­ AREN'T WE ALL? by Frederick he summer holiday season wouldn't quirements of subscribers have been met. Lonsdale T be complete without the traditional Directed by Clifford Williams Australian Opera season and we offer Set design by Finlay James members the opportunity to purchase -A Lady of Note Costume design by Judith Bland tickets for two G & S operettas and three Cast includes , Claudette main season works. ary Gilmore had an immense vital­ Colbert, John Diedrich, Madge Ryan, M ity and zest for life. Her achieve­ BOOKING INFORMATION ments - poet, journalist, social Lewis Fiander and Peter Collingwood -'- Jan 8, 24 (mat) reformer, feminist,champion of peace Her Majesty's Theatre MIKADO-Jan 7, 10 (mat), 29 AETT $34.00, $31.00 (mats) and Dame of the British Empire attest to G.P. $38.00 that. Born in 1865, she lived a long and Pens/U 16 $27.00(mats) very active life until her death in 1962. In DAUGHTER OF THE REGIMENT -:-­ TO BOTANY BAY ON A BONDI Jan 21,31 (mat) TRAM, using the letters, poetry, I MASNADIERI - Feb 6, 9, i4 (mat) recollections, articles and private papers EUGENE ONEGIN - Feb 13, 21 (mat), 24 . . of Mary Gilmore, the actress Beverley Dunn recreates the work of this AETT $38.00 distinguished Australian. A one-woman G .P . $46.00 show, TO BOTANY BAY is directed by Pens/U 16 $34.00 (mats) Two AETT tickets per member Bruce · Myles at the . See Member Activities for pre­ theatre dinner on Thursday, January 29.

STC 1987 Programme BOOKING INFORMATION Marion Street Theatre Rex Harrison and C/alldelle Co/herr he Theatre Company has an Sun Jan 25 to Sun Feb 8 ollowing seasons in Melbourne, T exciting and very varied line-up of Tue to Sat 8.15 p.m. and Perth, Sydney audiences plays for 1987 being presented at the Sat and Sun at 5.00 p.m. F Wed at 11.00 a.m. will have the chance to see two legendary Drama Theatre, S.O.H. and the Wharf. The season opens on February 25 at the AETT $15.00 (Tue to Friand mats except stars of stage and screen - Rex Harrison Jan 28) and - in Frederick with .three one-act plays G.P. $18.00 (Tue to Thu), Lonsdale's AREN'T WE ALL? collectively titled NO(h) EXIT. They $19.00 (Fri to Sun) AREN'T WE ALL? takes its name include NO EXIT by Jean-Paul Sartre, Pens/ Stud $9.00 (except Fri and Sat evg) from the final line of the play "Aren't we and THE LADY AOI AND HANJO, Two AETT tickets per member all bloody fools?" Set against the two modern plays in the Noh tradition by backdrop of London high society, the Yukio Mishima. plot centres around Lord Grenham (Har­ In .April/May Judy Morris and rison), a wordly, witty aristocrat and his Graeme Blundell will star in Michael son and daughter-in-law who face a Gow's play, AWAY. A romantic fairy marital crisis. While he is trying to patch tale about the voyages of Pericles, up their tangled affairs, he is also trying Shakespeare's PERICLES, opens in to fend off the charming Lady Frinton June. Also opening in June is BLOOD (Colbert), a widow who is pursuing him. RELATIONS by distinguished Members are offered a $4.00 discount Australian poet and novelist David during the first two weeks of the season Malouf. followed by a $2.00 discount for the re­ Kate Fitzpatrick stars in the William mainder of the season. See Member Ac­ Wycherley restoration comedy, THE tIvItIes for pre-theatre dinner on COUNTRY WIFE . RIVERS OF February 4. CHINA is a new work by Australian playwright Alma de Groen. BOOKING INFORMA nON "Brilliant black hUinour" is how Alan Tue Feb 3 to Sat Feb 28 Mon to Sat at 8 p.m. Ayckbourn's has Wed and Sat at 2 p.m. been described in the London Press. It AETT $36.00 (Mon to Sat evg), will star . The final play for $34.00 (Mon to Thu evg until Feb 14) the year is SIESTAS IN A PINK HOTEL Be\·erle,· DIIIIII $31.00 (mats), $29.00 (mats until Feb 14) by Jennifer Claire. It is a sharp, witty G;P. $38 .00 (Mon to Sat) comedy of Sydney manners starring Musical Feast Pens/Stud $25.00 (Mon to Thu evg) Sandy Gore. $18.00 (mats) Members wishing to subscribe to the elebrate the festive season by joining Two AETT tickets per member season should contact the STC on C some of Australia's leading musical 3

performers at the Seymour Theatre porary dance. The company of ten Centre. Rita Hunter and The Song dancers have already played in Orange, The Final Exchange Company sing Victorian ballads and Bathurst and Dubbo and had their first A ONE-MAN PROTEST traditional carols; Lauris Elms sings in a Sydney season at the Bay Street Theatre by programme of Berlioz "Summer Nights" in August. Their return season at the Bay Directed by Sandra Bates and songs by ; while Winsome Street Theatre between December 3 and 7 Designed by Tom Bannerman Evans, the Renaissance Players and will include WHITE SHADOWS, a Cast: Gillian Axtell and Brian Young Erasmus the Clown finish the season with dramatic ballet in two acts, and JEUX a slice of Christmas pudding! DE GENS, a one-act comedy about social behaviour and people's inter­ ONE-MAN PROTEST is the final BOOKING INFORMATION actions at various stages in life. A play in the series of four of Alan Rita Hunter: Wed Dec 17 at 8 p.m. Ayckbourn's AETT discount $3.00 BOOKING INFORMATION currently being staged by the Ensemble. Lauris Elms: Sat Dec 13 at 8 p.m. Wed Dec 3 to Sat Dec 6 at 8 p.m. If you haven't yet seen the third, A AETT discount $3.00 Sat 6 and Sun 7 at 3 p.m. CRICKET MATCH, you have until Winsome Evans: Fri and Sat Dec 19, 20 AETT discount $2.00 December 27. The fast-talking English at 8 p.m. Sat Dec 20 at 2 p.m. (spec. Bookings on 692 0977, 747 3020 have been a marathon for children's perf.) actors Gillian Axtell and Brian Young AETT discount $2.00 (Fri only) Bookings on 6920555 who each play up to four or more roles in Sydney, then N.Y. each play, with amazing dexterity. A ONE-MAN PROTEST will open on James Dean Double January 3 and run till the end of the I' The AETT is presenting the Tide month. A Theatre Company's production of NOW THERE'S JUST THE THREE ~L Daniel Keene's new play ANGELS BOOKING INFORMATION OF US by Michael Weller, and TOMORROW at the Performance Space Sat Jan 3 to Sat Jan 31 LINE by Horovitz in December. In March 1987 the com­ Tue to Sat at 8 p.m. Directed by Richard Brooks pany will take the production to New Thu at II a.m. Sat and Sun at 5 p.m. Cast: Miles Buchanan, Nicholas Eadie, York. Set in a dingy bedsit, ANGELS AETT $14.00 (Tue to Fri), $10.00 (mats) John Higgins and Rebecca Dines TOMORROW is the story of ex-boxer G.P. $16.00 (Tue to Thu), $18.00 (Fri and Sat evg), $14.00 (Sat/ Sun mat), Bondi Pavilion Theatre Joey Dillon, who, having reached his $13.00 (Thu mat) lowest ebb, is confronted by phantoms of Pens/Stud $12.00 (Tue to Fri) ialystock and Bloom, a theatre com­ his past. pany formed by Sydney actors, are $11.00 (Sat/Sun mat), $10.00 (Thu mat) B Two AETT tickets per member presenting two cult comedies of the 'six­ ties in a double-bill dedicated to James Dean. Both plays are hard-hitting com­ edies. They are bold, frank, tough and Barnstorming explicit and star two of Australia's THE CHOIR by Errol Bray brightest names. Miles Buchanan comes Directed by Errol Bray to the part fresh from starring roles in Design by Monita Roughsedge BRIGHTON BEACH MEMOIRS and St. John's Hall, Paddington ADRIAN MOLE, while Nicholas Eadie, who is playing opposite Anne Tenney in and arts events group, AND A NIGHTINGALE SANG, will be A Barnstorm, will present the familiar to TV audiences for his portrayal Linzee Smith acclaimed Australian play, THE of Bill Lancaster in THE LANCASTER/ CHOIR, as their first production in mid­ MILLER AFFAIR. The Tide Theatre was seen at the Space January. The group, which includes earlier in the year with two other plays by theatre professionals with a wide variety BOOKING INFORMATION Daniel Keene - ISLE OF SWANS and of skills, plans to put emphasis on theatre Tue Jan 6 to Sat Jan 24 THE NIGHT BEFORE MY BROTHER productions, community and youth Tue to Thu at 8 p.m. DIES, which has also been televised by theatre, festivals, scripting and Fri and Sat at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. the ABC. Audiences will again be able to workshops. THE CHOIR was first pro­ Sun at 5.30 p.m. enjoy the astonishing performances of duced by Nimrod in 1981 and is set in an AETT discount $2.90 Rhonda Wilson and Linzee Smith, who Bookings on 307211 orphanage where the boys in the choir are have been described as "generating a castrated to preserve their soprano heat, an intensity of obsession which voices. scorches like a flame". New Dance Company BOOKING INFORMATION BOOKING INFORMATION Fri Jan 16 to Sat Jan 31 eelance Dance Company was formed Thu Dec 4 to Sun Dec 21 Fri and Sat at 7 and 9 p.m. F in January this year by its artistic Wed to Sun at 8.00 p.m. Sun at 5 p.m. director, Ann Butt, and molds together AETT di scount $1.00 AETT discount $2.00 I elements of modern dance and contem- Bookings on 699 5091 Bookings on 356 2431 /

I'Et An Australian Elizabethan Theatre Trust presentation ______--;- , I King of Country Emerald City Nunsense

his is about people who love their new David Williamson play will be a oor Little Sisters of Hoboken, T country and country music. The A treat in store for the New Year. .P twenty-two of their members have family is Australian. Dad is divorced, Opening on January I, EMERALD· been poisoned by the convent chef, but both from his wife and his showbiz past CITY is the latest work from Australia's after burying eighteen, the money ran out and deeply regrets his move to the city most successful and certainly most pro­ and the remainder are languishing in the with his family. He decides to return to lific playwright. The story concerns a 'fridge! To make things worse the the scene of his country music days and Melbourne film and TV scriptwriter who Department of Health is about to des­ to the girl he left behind him. So back to moves to Sydney, the hedonistic Emerald cend. To raise the burial money, they Tamworth they go, taking along the City of Oz. How will it's brashness affect decide to put on a variety show and the grandfather who is still angry about the his work after the " sodden rectitude" of five Sisters bounce through a ·hilarious loss of his farm in the depression. The Melbourne? Much of the plot is toe-tapping show. Directed by Barry music and lyrics are by Tim Gooding. autobiographical, for Williamson was a Creyton,choreography by Dolores KING OF COUNTRY features Terry Melbourne writer who moved to Sydney Dunbar, musical direction Michael Donovan and Jodie Gillies, last seen in and the play's hero, Colin, scripted Tyack. SONDHEIM,and the Three Chord movies and wrote a TV series on a Prime Wonders, rated in Tamworth as "the Minister's downfall -as did David BOOKING INFORMATION hottest outfit around". Members are Williamson. Richard Wherrett directs a Footbridge Theatre advised to book during January as cast which · includes John Bell, Ruth Tue Jan 6 to Sun Feb 1 Decemb~r performances are heavily Cracknell, Max Cullen and Robyn TuetoThu at 8 p.m. subscribed. Nevin. Fri at 6 p.m : and 9 p.m. Sat at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Sun at5 p.m. BOOKING INFORMA TlON BOOKING INFORMA nON AETT $22.50 (except Fri 9 p.m. and Sat Drama Theatre, S.O.H. Wharf Theatre 8 p.m .) Thu Jan 1 to Sat Jan 31 Wed Dec 3 to Sat Jan 31 G.P $26.50 (Fri 9 p.m. and Sat 8 p.m.) Mon to Sat at 8 p.m. Mon to Sat at 8 p.m. $25.50 (Tue to Thu and mats) Sat at 2 p.m. Sat at 2 p.m. Pens/ Stud $19.50 (except Fri 9 p.m. and AETT $22.00 (Mon to Thu and mat) AETT $18 .00 (Mon to Thu and mat) Sat 8 p.m.) G.P. $25.00 G.P. $20.00 Children $15 .50 (except Fri 9 p.m. and Pens/ Stud $15.00 (Mon to Thu and mat) Pens/ Stud $22.00 (Mon to Thu and mat) Sat 8 p.m.) Two AETT tickets per member Two AETT tickets per rriember Two AETT tickets per member

by Carole Long, Membership Manager

s you're wandering through David members from time to time. One service card number, performance details - to A Jones stores this Christmas take time we've been wanting to introduce for some hand BEFORE you ring. out to stop and admire the white . toy time is phone bookings, and I'm bears on display in their toydepartments. delighted to be able to announce the start his is the last edition of Trust News The Trust's costume hire department of this service on December 1 (see details T for 1986 and covers both the Decem­ made costumes for them ---' all 774 of p. 5). What has prevented us offering the ber and January period. We'll be back in them. They're dressed in circus costumes service before was the limited switch­ print with our first edition for 1987 at the all designed by Trust staff - there's the board capacity and the staff to handle the . end of January. ·Inthe meantime I'd like strong. man, trapeze artists, ring .master, work involved. The first probiem was to thank our many members for their stilt clown and polka dot clown. It took resolved when The Australian Ballet continuing support throughout the year eight people six weeks to complete the vacated our premises and the second pro­ and to wish . you all a very happy job. Just one of the intriguing contracts blem is being resolved with the help of an Christmas and New Year. regularly undertaken by the department's increased band of volunteers. This will made-to-order service. mean that apart from a charge of 50c per booking to cover return postage and e .are very much aware of the need envelope we can offer the service to W to continually review and upgrade members free . of additional charges. our services to members and I do ap­ Please assist us by having all your book­ preciate the suggestions we receive from ing details - membership number, credit It 's Christmas holiday time soon (as if you didn't know!) and for the guidance of parents and grandparents alike we list the main ·theatrical offerings for young people. Because of the low tir;ket prices involved, an AETT discount does not normally apply . . GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS was never like this! At Phillip Street Theatre, director Peter Williams is setting his Australian version on the road to Gundagai where Goldilocks is part of a travelling circus. The traditional Christmas panto combines all the fun of the circus with the fairy tale itself. As usual there's lots of audience participa­ tion. Performances are being given right through to January 24 at 10 a.m: and 12.30 Monday to Friday and 1:30 and January 2 (Wednesday to Saturday with p.m.). But the play is a Dickhead Free 3.30 Saturdays. It's ideal for preschoolers matinees on Thursdays and Saturdays). Zone, so be warned. Jodie is a waxhead and infants. Bookings on 232 8570. But don't go expectinganimil.l acts or whose passion, besides Whacker, is to you'll be in for a surprise. What you'll make · the boys' touch footy team. Northside Theatre Company at Marian get is a much more thrilling display of Whacker's a bong brain who loves the Street continue their .happy holiday trad­ (lcrobatics, balancing routines, aerial waves and babes and hates bull dykes. ition with a new play by Helen Martin. trapeze acts, unicycling, plate spinning Need we say more, .. Workshops for Called CRYSTAL CAVE, it's a fantasy and juggling. Bookings on 692 3511. juniors and intermediates are also offered set in an Australian bush setting. The by ATYP at their Rocks headquarters, children journey into a strange world Shop front Theatre in Carlton will be Mosman, Parramatta, Sutherland and with mythical characters such as the presenting their own adaptation of Lewis Moorebank. Bookings for the show and wombotham (who has a passion for col­ Carroll's classic ALICE for three days workshops on 251 3900. lecting things) and the nuffin (because he only (January 5 to 7 at 2 p.m. and 7 is a bit of a "nuffin"). It's suitable for 3- p.m.)~ It is a gigantic musical production PACT Co-operative down at the Corn to 9-year-olds and will be presented with a cast of 60, a large orchestra, and Exchange, 173 Sussex Street, are presen­ Monday to Friday at 10.30 and I p.m. hundreds of outrageous costumes. Book­ ting their student production of from January 5 for three weeks. Saturday ings on 588 3948. MARMADUKE BUNYIP AND THE performances continue until the end of WISHING WELL from January 19 to 29 February. Bookings on 498 3166. High school students and adults alike will at 11 a.m. and 1 p:m. The story revolves enjoy the Kathy Lette play GROM­ around characters in the 1860s and their Circus Oz is back in town! The sight of MITTS · being presented by The descendants in the 1980s. Workshops for the. big top in the grounds of the Seymour Australian Theatre for Young People at 3- t09-year-olds and teenagers are also Centre is now becoming a familiar sight the Rocks Theatre between January 6 held between January 5 and 29. Bookings in January. They'll be performing from and 24 (Tue to Sat at 8 p.m. and Wed at 2 on 29 8239.

Making the Most of your Trust Membership

TELEPHONE BOOKINGS made by cheque, Bankcard or Master- . TWO WAYS TO BOOK AT SHORT Card. . NOTICE (within two weeks) We are delighted to announce the intro­ 2. Pay by cash by bringing your Trust I. At the theatre or Bass outlets in per­ duction of a telephone booking service Member Booking Coupon into the son. Show your membership card to for members from December I. This Trust during normal office hours. recei ve the AETT discount. There are means that members have three alter­ 3. Use the Trust's phone booking service one or two shows (e.g. CATS and The native ways of advance booking and two (357 1200) between 10 and 12 a.m. or Australian Opera) which do not offer ways to book at short notice. The various 2 and 4 p .m. daily. Please have ready AETT discounts at the theatre but this options are detailed below: your mem·bership . number, selected is always indicated in Trust News .. dates, number of tickets and credit 2. By phone to the theatre or Bass using a THREE WAYS TO ADVANCE BOOK card .number (MasterCard and credit card, Tne phone number of I. Fill in the Trust Member Booking Bankcard only) berore ringing. No each theatre is given in Theatreguide Coupon enclosed With Trust News and . charge is made for this service (other attached to your T.M. Booking return it to the Trust with · a stamped than 50c for s.a.e.) so please help by Coupon. Quote . your membership addressed envelope. Payment can be being as brief as possible. number· to obtain the AETT discount. 6

The 1987 Festival of Sydney

Theatrical events [rom the u.K., the U.S., Eire and Australia [orm the centre­ Grin and Tonic The American Dream piece o[ the Sydney Festival's arts pro­ YDIE BREEZE is one of John gramme with numerous Sydney-based L Guare's quartet of plays on the companies taking part in umbrella American experience. In them, the events. The principal events o[ the theatre author has been creating a romantic, ex­ programme are covered here along with travagant vision of the American dream. the ever-popular Mostly Mozart series. In the first play Lydie Breeze and three Space prevents us covering the [ull range young Union soldiers in the Civil War o[ musical events which as usual includes form a Utopian commune on Nantucket the Opera in the Park (this year starring Island. In his second play, he shows how Joan Carden in MADAMA BUTTER­ their high hopes were dashed in violence. FL Y) and the Symphony in the Park. In LYDIE BREEZE he takes his saga to Full details are in the Festival programme the twentieth century and while Lydie which is available [rom Mitchells Bass. Breeze is long dead (suicide) her spirit of adventure and aspiration continues through her two daughters. They rekindle Michael Clark the lost dreams and legacies of the failed Utopia. FIRE ESCAPE IN HELL, o Bryan Nason and Erin Murphy in DESDEMONA LYDIE BREEZE is presented by one presented by Michael Clark and N AND of the most exciting theatre companies in Company at this year's Festival of the U.S. today. The Steppenwolf Theatre Sydney, follows hot on the heels of their his -based theatre com­ Company has the likes of , highly successful season at the Sadler's T pany is presenting DESDEMONA Sam Shepard and on its Wells Theatre, London and, subse­ AND OTHELLO, one of Shakespeare's advisory board. Here, one of the com­ quently, at the Next Wave Festival, New greatest plays, but with a new twist. In re­ pany's members, Rondi Reed, makes her York, where Clark was the first British naming the play, Grin and Tonic focus directorial debut. choreographer invited to attend. This on the full depth and potential of three-act work commemorates the loss of Desdemona's character and free any BOOKING INFORMATION the innocence and optimism of the 'six­ preconceptions of the play. Here, they York Theatre, Seymour Centre ties. Clark is an enfant terrible of the new show that the tragedy of the play was not Wed Jan 21 to Sat Jan 31 generation of talent in British fashion, just in Othello's loss of a partner, but in Mon to Sat 8 p.m. Sat mat 2 p.m. dance and rock music, marked by such the death of a woman who was able to AETT $23.00 (except Fri, Sat evg), $20.00** (Jan 22, 23) new wave designers as Bodymap, Charles inspire all around her. The characterisa­ tions question the traditional interpreta­ G.P. $25.00 Atlas and Australian-born Leigh Bowery Pens $16.00, Stud $20.00 (who creates Clark's sets and costumes). tions; Iago is not necessarily the villain of Two AETT tickets per member (except He is never still and careers through what the piece, Othello is as much to blame for Jan 22,23) could loosely be termed a musical revue, the outcome as he. It is set in Cyprus, in a with jokes, solo turns, chorus routines war-torn Mediterranean, which illus­ Theatre South Returns and spectacular theatrics. You will be trates, even more sharply, Shakespeare's surprised! abiding theme of the balance of order in ollowing its successful appearance at chaos. Bryan Nason plays Othello, Erin F The Wharf with TONIGHT WE BOOKING INFORMATION Murphy, Desdemona and Stephen Clark, ANCHOR AT TWOFOLD BAY, Everest Theatre, Seymour Centre Iago. Robert Arthur and Bryan Nason Theatre South now presents Fri Jan 16 to Sat Jan 31 direct. TRUMPETS AND RASPBERRIES by Mon to Sat 8.30 p.m. Dario Fo. This is the story of a terrorist AETT $26.00 (except Fri and Sat), BOOKING INFORMATION kidnapping gone horribly wrong. An $23.00** (Jan 17, 19) Broadwalk Studio, S.O.H. G.P. $28.00 Sat Jan 3 to Sat Jan 17 (no perf. Fri attempt to capture Agnelli, the head of Pens $18.00, Stud $22.00 Jan 9) the Fiat corporation, is foiled by one of Two AETT tickets per member (except Mon to Sat 8 p.m. Sat mat at 2 p.m. his workers, Antonio. Following the Jan 17, 19) AETT $18.00 (except Fri and Sat evgs), attack, Agnelli requires reconstructive $15.00** (Jan 5, 6) surgery, and is later mistaken for his **This special discount price is only G.P. $20.00 rescuer; it is here that the mad confusion available on tickets ordered prior to Pens $12.00, Stud $15.00 begins. Here, also, the author shows that, December 24. Members may purchase Two AETT tickets per member (except in his opinion, laughter and joy are the . unlimited tickets at this price. Jan 5, 6) best arguments for hope amidst anarchy. 7

TRUMPETS AND RASPBERRIES was one of the very successful plays An Incomparable Trio Mostly Mozart presented at the 1985 Edinburgh Fringe Festival and its author is one of the most n THE REGARD OF FLIGHT and s usual there's a marvellous admired political humourists of the day. I THE CLOWN OF BAGATELLES, A smorgasbord of music at the Directed by Des Davis, Peter Corbett , Doug Skinner and Michael MOSTLY MOZART concerts. Approp­ plays the dual roles of Antonio and O'Connor present a satire on the "new riately enough, the series open on Jan 3 Agnelli with Faye Montgomery as theatre" (to which, incidentally, Bill with an all-Mozart programme per­ Antonio's deserted wife, Rosa. Irwin belongs). The antics of Bill Irwin formed by the Australian Chamber bring to mind images of Buster Keaton, Orchestra and Sydney Philharmonia . BOOKING INFORMA nON Marcel Marceau and . He Choir under the direction of Christopher Wharf Studio is a mime, acrobat, musician, singer, jug­ Hogwood. Hogwood returns with the Wed Jan 7 to Sat Jan 24 gler, tap dancer; in fact, almost a one­ orchestra on January 6 for another all­ Mon to Sat at 8 p.m. Sat at 2 p.m. man band, except that he is ably assisted Mozart concert with soloists Geoffrey AETT $18.00 (except Fri, Sat evg), by Doug Skinner's straight-man antics, Collins (flute) and Gordon Skinner $15.00** (Jan 8, 9) and Michael O'Connor, who plays the (bassoon). On the 5th William Reid con­ G.P. $20.00 assaulting critic. Irwin was the first ducts the Elizabethan Sydney Orchestra Pens $14.00, Stud $17.00 performing artist to be awarded a in a Mozart/Beethoven programme Two AETT tickets per member (except MacArthur Foundation of Chicago prize (Robert Johnson, horn). The series ends Jan 8, 9) and also an Obie. THE REGARD OF on the 7th with St. Philip's Chamber FLIGHT and THE CLOWN OF Orchestra, conducted by Michael Dyer. BAGATELLES promises to be a very It's a family concert, ending with A Touch of Blarney! amusing evening. Handel's Royal Fireworks. See Member Activities for Picnic in the Park. ull of the Irish gift of the gab, and the BOOKING INFORMATION F curse of drink, CONVERSA nONS Concert Hall, S.O.H. ON A HOMECOMING, by the Irish­ Sat Jan 3 and Tue Jan 6 at 8 p.m. born Tom Murphy, was first staged at AETT $16.00, G.P. $18.00 the Performing Arts Festival in New Mon Jan 5 at 8 p.m. York. It received warm critical acclaim. AETT $13.00, G.P. $15.00 Tom Murphy is not only a writer of enor­ Wed Jan 7 at 8 p.m. mous talent, he is also the founder of the AETT $7.00, G.P. $10.00 Druid Theatre Company (one of Two AETT tickets per member Ireland's leading companies). Garry Hynes directs the company, which is Don't Miss the Bus! making its first tour of Australia. CONVERSAnONS ON A HOME­ he 21 A runs between Minneapolis COMING is set in a pub (where else) in T and St. Paul. It's a bus ride to the Galway during the early '70s where a bizarre. It might well be sub-titled "The group of idealistic Irish buddies are Fruitcake Express" or "A one-man drowning their sorrows after the death of band", for it's written by American John F. Kennedy. Welcomed back is Kevin Kling, driven by Kevin Kling, who Michael, an actor returning to his also, you've guessed it, plays the seven hometown after living in America during passengers! He even manages to play the Kennedy era. It is clear, however, that Gladys, one of the regulars on the trip, time has wrought changes among his who boards the bus loaded with cat food, friends, particularly Tom, the disillus­ to feed, one suspects, . not only her cats, ioned schoolteacher, would-be actor. but also her husband. Directed by Steven The play brings a new meaning to the Dietz, Kevin Kling is a master story­ age-old theme of "homecoming". It has teller, stand-up comic, country moments of great comedy and is the win­ philosopher and a keen observer of the ner of two Irish Theatre awards. Bill Irwin human condition.

BOOKING INFORMA nON-. BOOKING INFORMATION BOOKING INFORMATION Belvoir Street Theatre York Theatre, Seymour Centre Downstairs Theatre, Seymour Centre Thu Jan 8 to Sun Jan 25 Fri Jan 9 to Sat Jan 17 Mon Jan 5 to Sat Jan 24 Tue to Sat 8 p.m. Sun 5 p.m. Mon to Sat 8.30 p.m. Sat mat 2 p.m. Mon to Sat 8.30 p.m. AETT $23.00 (except Fri, Sat), AETT $23.00 (except Fri and Sat evgs), AETT $16.00 (except Fri, Sat), $20.00** (Jan 9, 10) $20.00** (Jan 10, 12) $14.00** (Jan 6, 7) G.P. $25.00 G.P. $25.00 G.P. $18.00 Pens $16.00, Stud $20.00 Pens $15.00, Stud $20.00 Pens $12.00, Stud $14.00 Two AETT tickets per member except Two AETT tickets per member except Two AETT tickets per member (except Jan 9, 10 Jan 10/12 Jan 6, 7) 8

PICNIC IN HIE PARK side restaurant. So we thought we'd set AREN'T WE ALL DINNER Monday, January 5 at 6 p.m. that right with a dinner before their New Cyreri's Restaurant - Wednesday, The Mostly Mozart series is one of the Year production of TO BOT ANY BAY February 4 highlights of the Sydney Festival and of ON A BONDI TRAM (see A LADY OF special significance to the Trust is the NOTE P 2). Tickets are $33 each which Our SUGAR BABIES dinner at popular concert presented by the Elizabethan includes both dinner and theatre. As we'll Cyren's seafood restaurant was such a Sydney Orchestra. Members and their be sitting in the theatre as a group, singles success that we've decided to make a friends are invited to join us both at the are particularly welcome to join us. return visit there prior to a performance concert and at a picnic dinner in the of AREN'T WE ALL? (see story p. 2). Botanical Gardens beforehand. Tickets Tickets are $58 each which includes both are $25 which includes both the concert dinner and the theatre. ticket and the picnic dinner. SCONE WEEKEND Fancy Dress Hires DINNER AND OPERA Saturday, March 14/Sunday, March 15 hen it comes to costumes for that PATIENCE - Thursday, January 8 The Heritage Series of musical evenings W. fancy dress party (or a Santa Claus The Australian Opera's summer season at historical homes will include a recital outfit for the kids' Christmas party) will shortly be upon us and we invite at Belltrees Station on March 14 and it rerneml;>er that the Trust has over 10,000 members . to join us for dinner at The seems a perfect excuse to spend a costumes available for hire at reasonable Phantom of the Opera restaurant · in the weekend in the delightful Scone district. rates. And with four outlets throughout Rocks . prior to a performance · of With echoes of Glyndebourne, there'll be Sydney it should be possible to find a PATIENCE at the Opera House. Tickets a picnic on the lawn before the perfor­ convenient place to shop. Our main col- . are $54.00 each, which include~ both mance (to be held in the Belltrees wool­ lection . is housed at the Trust's Kings dinner and opera tickets - a bargain at shed) and slipper afterwards. There'll Cross office but we also have costumes in the price! also be an inspection of the property. the City (2nd floor, 411 Kent Street, tel. MARIAN STREET DINNER Sunday will be spent · visiting the 296019), Parramatta (Suite 4, 1st floor, 60 Horwood Place, tel. 689 1767) and TO BOTANY BAY ON A BONDI Barrington Tops area with luncheon ona Hurstville (Suite 2, 1st floor, 245 Forest TRAM '- Thursday, January 29 property at Gloucester. Reserve your place now! Tickets are $175, which is Road, tel. 570 2634). As a bonus, It's a while now since we had a dinner in fully inclusive of bus travel, accommoda­ members receive a 20070 discount on Marian Street Theatre's delightful north- tion, meals and entries. hires. II I Wh!!~... by Irvin Bauer -,n~· ~~~------~------~--~-----~,!I I I

s you may have noticed, Broadway is splendid. A happy audience for a change great glint in his eye, and the rubbery leg­ A not being deluged with new amazing . . . applauding ... cheering ... smiling ged Stephen Kearney, who doesn't seem piecesdu entertainment. But ... if you ... nice. Shortly after I went back to see to have a joint in his body, are very very venture a bit up town to Lincoln Center MEFISTOFOLE with music and libretto funny. They are also original, which in you can enjoy . the best musicals seen by Arrigo Boito. Directed imaginatively itself is a novefty. They involve the au­ anywhere ina long time ... , by Tito Capobianco, it is a remarkable dience to a great, a chaotic degree . . . amazing lady that she is, has made the work; impressive, bold, theatrically and juggling rolls which find their way into Opera a consistent delight musically superb ~ A very exciting evening the audience and.then back again in rapid and audiences throng nightly to each new in the theatre. John Cheek sang and acted fire, missiles propdled every which way inspiration. I saw a splendid production the title role, a tour de force, with great with hilarious results. Messy, a junk­ of THE NEW MOON with music .by verve and abandon. Terrific stuff. strewn stage, but oh so funny, I have no Sigmund Romberg. The book and lyrics, Now the most imaginative work I've · idea what the title or name means but originally by Oscar Hammerstein II, were seen lately in the theatre ... LOS TRIOS with two such funny fellows who cares. I revised for this production · by Robert RINGBARKUS, playing at odd times, wish them every success . .. and am Sure Johanson, who did a wonderful job of late in the evening at the American ,Place I'll see more of them if we are lucky directing and choreographing as well. It· Theatre in the heart of Broadway's enough to keep them here. It's one time has colourful swashbuckling adventure, theatre district. I had heard a great deal when your loss is our gain. I hope we can high romance and complicated plot and is about them, word of mouth ... so I send you something equally amusing in played for all it's worth. But what really went. 1 must say 1 wasn't prepared. The return. makes it memorable is the Romberg whole show is comprised of acast of two · Irvin S. Bauer is a Playwright-Producer score: "Stouthearted Men", "One ... Neill Gladwin and Stephen Kearney, based in New York where he ·heads THE I Kiss", "Wanting Yoli" , "Lover Come and they come from · Melbourne. They DEVELOPMENT STAGE, a place Back To Me", "Softly, As in .a Morning are simply terrific. Neill, a Stan Laurel where the Writer is encouraged to fulfil Sunrise", all in the same show. It was personification, straight sad face with a the potential of his work. 9

THE ASSAM GARDEN directed by Mary McM urray Screenplay by Elisabeth Bond Starring Deborah Kerr.. Madhur Jaffrey, Alec McCowen and Zia Mohyeddin Opening December 19 at the Academy Twin, Paddington

he role of the former ~ mem­ T sahib seems to belong by nght to Deborah Kerr. Who could forget her magnificent performance in the telemovie "Staying On", about the couple who chose to remain in an Indian hill settle­ ment after independence. [n THE ASSAM GARDEN, Helen and her hus­ band Arthur have returned to England where Arthur has spent his retirement creating an Assam jungle garden, a rarity in England (as the film-makers found); a nostalgic hangover from the days of the British Raj. As the film opens, Helen blames Arthur's death on his work in the garden, Madhur Jaffrey and Deborah Kerr in THE ASSAM GARDEN but when it is suggested that the garden Desolate, he is visited by Father Gabriel · ference; it's a family of mice. Our hero, may be il1cluded in a book of famous and to expiate his guilt, he makes an ar- Feivel Mousekewitz's arrival in New English' gardens, she takes on the gigantic duous journey to the up-river mission. York is unorthodox; he is swept over- task of putting it in order for the inspec­ There he helps run the mission with board en route and is washed up in a tion. Unexpected help comes from a Father Gabriel and becomes a priest. bottle on the shores of his new home. homesick Indian woman, whose family When the church decides to close the mis- Determined to find his family, he faces has no desire to return to ·India. The sions, the two men are faced with an . the perils, opportunities and adventures garden is one of the stars Of the film, with agonising ·choite; to obey their superiors of a new world. But like all good heroes its constant demands and its effects on or to save the local tribes from the slave he makes good. those who care for it. traders. The filrn uses classical animation and AN AMERICAN TAIL directed by meticulous accuracy in its details and THE M[SS[ON directed by Roland Joffe Don Bluth sets, plus state-of-the-art techniques. Screenplay by Robert Bolt . Created by David Kirschner There · are some · delightful characters; Produced by Fernando Ghia and David Screenplay by Tony Geiss and Judy Tiger, a bad cat with a heart of gold and Puttnam . Freudberg the voice of Dom . Deluise; Gussie Starring , Robert De Nir?, Produced by Steven Spielberg, David Mausheimer, the richest mouse in New Ray McAnally, Ronald Pickup, Damel Kirschner, Kathleen Kennedy and Frank York (voice of Madeline Kahn); Papa Berrigan and Liam Neeson . Marshall Mousekewitz who promises that America Opening December .4 at the Pitt Centre Music by James Horner is a land "where the·re are no cats" and (G. u.) and Double Bay (Village) . Opening December 18 at the George "the streets are paved with cheese" (soon Complex (G. u.) to . be disproved); Henri the French et in South America . in the mid­ pigeon (); the fast­ seventeen hundreds, THE MIS­ S ne for the young and young-at-heart. . talking con Warren T. Rat and Digit, a SION'S background is the convoluted Steven Spielberg's first venture into calculating cockroach. Tony Geiss and power-play in the Catholic Church at that O animated movies, AN AMERICAN Judy Freudberg, who wrote the time, with the Spanish and Portuguese TAIL is the story qf a family migrating to screenplay, . were the Emmy A ward­ kingdoms attempting to weaken ~he ·America late last century, but with a dif- winning writers for "Sesame. Street". power of the Jesuits in South AmerIca and so damage tr.eir influence in Europe. BOOKING INFORMATION Among the dangerous Indian tribes up­ river, the liyesof two very different m~n Concessional vouchers can be purchased from the members may p~rch ase as many as they wish. become closely linked; Father Gabnel AETT for $5.50 ($2.00 saving) and exchanged at Please speci fy which cinema chain you requirc. (Jeremy Irons) is searching for the Hoyts, Greater Union and Village cinemas for Di scou nt s arc also o ffered at the Dendy Cincma, ti cket s. The vouchers arc open dated but some Martin Place ($2.50), and the Acadcmy Twin, cruci fiers of a Jesuit missionary; the Saturday/Public Holiday ·restrict ions apply to mercenary Mendoza () is Paddington ($2.50), at all performanccs cxcept their use. See vouchers for details. after midday Saturday. Members should present buying slaves. Back in the city of Asun­ their membership card at the box office. Di scount cion, Mendoza kills the yo unger brother No handling fee appli es to film vouchers and avail ablc on onc ticket per member. he loves in a brawl over a woman. 10

fter a very successful Sydney season If It's hard not to have a good time at he final production of the year at the A earlier this year DAGS is back. A. SUGAR BABIES, for this is a zany, T Q Theatre, Penrith, is a family Although designed specifically for young ~L high spirited piece of nonsense, done musical. Set in the 1880s TARANTARA people, DAGS seems to have struck a with style, slapstick and stand-up TARANTARA weaves the magic of responsive chord among teenagers and comedy. Great for this time of the year! 's music and songs their elders alike - and that's a difficult It is a slice of Americana nostalgically around the highlights of their careers and thing to do! It isn't easy being a teenager revived with beautiful girls and comics that of Richard D'Oyly Carte. This and feeling that, perhaps, you're ugly or galore. Eddie Bracken, from the U.S. musical was last presented in Sydney over that you're the kid everyone is nasty to. production, plays the first comic, Garry ten years ago at which time The National Perhaps it does help though to know that McDonald another; Joan Brockenshire Times wrote "If you have forgotten what it happens to others and that there is (some of the best legs in the business) is great entertainment is like, then you need truth in the saying "a trouble shared, is a their perfect foil. Presented by the AETT look no further". Until December 15. trouble halved". DAGS was written by until January 25 at Her Majesty's. AETT discount $1.00 Debra Oswald (Palace of Dreams) and AETT discount$7.00 Bookings on (047) 21 5735 the production is mounted by the Toe Bookings on 212 1066 Truck Theatre, one of Sydney's leading here's Christmas cheer a'plenty at theatre-in-education teams. At Belvoir T Marian Street Theatre where the Street Theatre from November 28 until NorthSide Theatre Company is present­ December 21. ing ABSURD PERSON SINGULAR by AETT discount $3.00 Alan Ayckbourn (for cryptic crossword Bookings on 699 3273 fanatics, that means "Silly Me" !). Set on Christmas Eve over thtee successive Ian Ayckbourn seems to be the years, it is a funny behind-the-scenes look A playwright of the moment both in at Christmas party disasters. Lots of Sydney and London. At the Ensemble A laughs with underlying pathos. Directed CRICKET MATCH, the third in the by John Tasker, it continues until INTIMATE EXCHANGES series, con­ January 17. tinues until December 27 . Brian Young AETT discount $1.00 (except Sat evg) plays the now familiar roles of head­ Bookings on 4983166 master Toby, his stodgy friend, Miles, et among Philadelphia's high society, and the groundsman, Lionel, but they are Garry McDonald in SUGAR BABIES THE PHILADELPHIA STORY joined by a new character, Reg Schooner, S hristmas is coming and NOTTA concerns the romances of one, Tracy a hearty cricketing type. Gillian Axtell LOTTA SERIOUS BITS is helping Lord. Divorced from one husband, she is again plays the headmaster's wife and C to celebrate it. Kinselas is staging this fun about to embark on another, when the their maid but also takes the role of the show, which is a pot-pourri of skits, first one re-appears! While all good fun, wife's mother and Miles' jokes, sketches, songs, parodies and it also provides a moving commentary on wife, Rowena. Where do they get the satire (whew!), until Jan 3. Penny Cook energy? human nature. The Sydney Theatre plays the Virgin Mary, Graeme Blundell Company production continues until AETT discount $2.00 (Tue to Fri and manages to play the entire N.S.W. legal mats) December 17 at the Drama Theatre, profession and there's a farewell ap­ S.O.H. Bookings on 929 8877 pearance by Nifty (you know who) as the AETT discount $3.00 (except Fri/Sat ghost of Christmas past. See the show evg) ne good thing leads to another, they only, or make a night of it with dinner, Bookings on 250 1777 O say, and at the Nimrod, ALL'S the show and disco. WELL THAT ENDS WELL is doing AETT discount $2.00 (Mon to Thu show emember those marvellous cameo just that. This is the final play in the only, Mon/ Sat show and dinner) R performances of Joyce Grenfell's? series being presented at the York Bookings on 331 3100 The jolly hockey-stick mistress in The Theatre, Seymour Centre, along with Happiest days of Your Life, SHE STOOPS TO CONQUER, THE ND A NIGHTINGALE SANG, a Policewoman Gates in St. Trinian's, the MERCHANT OF VENICE and, return­ A cheerful yet sentimental play by gawky, tweedy, horsy ladies, the radio ing in December, WILD HONEY with C. P. Taylor, deals with the resilience and critic and so many others. Her one­ John Bell. ALL'S WELL THAT ENDS spirit of an eccentric British family dur­ woman shows of monologues, sketches WELL is one of Shakespeare's lesser­ ing World War II. Anne Tenney plays the and songs were a hit here, in Britain and known works. It deals with a woman who lead role of Helen, club-footed and, in the . Tracy Harvey, with battles class prejudice and sexual her opinion, unattractive. She has an Phillip Nicholls at the piano, recaptures discrimination to win the man she loves: eccentric father, a mother pre-occupied the star of these shows in JOYCE! Tracy a surprisingly modern character for with the church, and a sister with a Harvey is well known for her many Shakespeare's time. Ruth Cracknell plays wandering eye! At the Playhouse, S.O.H. appearances in the Gillies Report; the The Countess, and the play is directed by until November 29. director is Adam Bowen. At the Belvoir Richard Cottrell. Until December 20. AETT discount $3 .00 (except Fri/ Sat Street Theatre until December 21 . AETT discount $2.00 (Tue to Fri) evg) AETT discount $3.00 Bookings on 692 0555 Bookings on 2 0525 Bookings on 699 3273 If . Et An Australian Elizabethan Theatre Trust presentation______Give the gift ofyear round theatre. Any friend, relative or business associate will appreciate your unique gift of Trust membership. It's a gift which keeps on giving throughout the year. The Trust will send the new member a distinctive card with your name and gift message or ifyou prefer, we will send you the card for personal presentation. ------SEND TO: A.E.T.T., P.O. BOX 137, KINGS CROSS 2011. PHONE: 357 1200 01 would like lO send a Gift Membership ($28) lO:

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is a publication of the Australian Elizabethan POSTACE Theatre Trust which is produced exclusively for its 9,000 members throughout Australia. PAID THE AUSTRALIAN ELIZABETHAN AUSTRALIA THEATRE TRUST (incorporated in the A.C.T.)

Patron Her Majesty The Queen President .sir Ian Potter Chairman Andrew Briger, AM Chief Executive Kathleen Norris Directors Rt. Hon. The Lord Mayor of Brisbane, Alderman S. Atkinson Sir David Griffin eBE, The Hon. Mr. 1ustice C. 1. Legoe K. E. Cowley, Dr. T. Manford, D. A. Mortimer L. G. Teale, L. D. S. Waddy, T. C. Yates Director of Finance: Mark Benvau Entrepreneurial Administrators: Dennis Linehan 10hn Woodland Australian Content Director: Wendy Blacklock Executive Producer for : Noel Ferrier Marketing Manager: David Martin Administrator of Orchestras: Warwick Ross Theatre of the Deaf Artistic Director: Patrick Mitchell Theatre of the Deaf Administrator: Priscilla Shorne Ticket Services Manager: 10 Litson Building, Props and Electric Supervisor: Roger Taylor Costume Hires Manager: Michael1ames Membership Manager: Carole Long Membership Secretary: Carol Martin Melbourne office: Carol Ormerod Brisbane office: Denise Wadley office: Veronica Bohm Perth office: 1anet Durack

The Australian Elizabethan Theatre Trust receives financial assistance for .its activities from: The Music, Theatre, Literature and Aboriginal Arts ji boards of The Australia Council a statutory body of the Commonwealth Government. The Department of Aboriginal Affairs. The New South Wales Government through the Office of the Minister for the Arts. The Queensland Government Directorate of Cultural Activities. The Victorian Ministry for the Arts. The Government of Western Australia through the W.A. Arts Council. B.P. Australia. The Ian Potter Foundation. The Australian Elizabethan Theatre Trust is a founder member of CAPPA. Membership enquiries should be directed to the Membership Secretary on 357 1200, 153 Dowling St., Potts Point. Postal address: P.O. Registered by Australia Post - Publication No. NBH 1305 Box 137, Kings Cross 2011. May be opened for postal inspection