AustLit
Latest Issues
Contents
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Travelling North,
single work
drama
Frank and Frances find new life in a twilight love affair, to the consternation of their conventional children. Their dream takes them north to the sun; but no sooner do they find their idyll than signs of mortality betray Frank's lion spirit. Travelling North is David Williamson's tribute to the generation that fought for change in Australia from the 30s to the 70s; and reaches the rueful conclusion that the legacy of such self-determination is narrow-mindedness and the need for love. (Publisher's blurb, back cover).
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The Golden Age,
single work
drama
'In 1939, a lost tribe of Europeans was discovered in the Tasmanian wilderness. They were a band of outcasts who had escaped the torture of convict life, scratching out an existence at the forgotten edge of the island, alone for almost a century.
'Inspired by this true story, writer Louis Nowra (Cosi, Radiance) penned The Golden Age – an extraordinary play that blends historical fact, Australian folklore and poetic language to create a post-colonial myth for our times. Nowra’s outcasts have developed a culture and dialect all of their own, but their bodies are failing them and their very existence is in danger. Brought back into the fold of Australian society, what fate awaits this band of exiles?'
Source: Sydney Theatre Company (2016 revival).
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No Sugar,
single work
drama
'The spirited story of the Millimurra family’s stand against government ‘protection’ policies in 1930s Australia.' (From the publisher's website.)
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Away,
single work
drama
'Commencing with a school performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the Shakespearean themes of suffering and reconciliation persist as three families on separate holidays are united during a fierce storm.
'Immigrants Harry and Vic love their adopted country but are faced with their son Tom’s terminal illness. Jim and Gwen fret over their daughter Meg’s blossoming independence and her friendship with the socially unsuitable Tom. Roy is unable to console a grief-stricken Coral over the death of their only son in Vietnam.
'But with the help of some Shakespearean fairies and a spectacular storm, these families are reconciled and face the future anew.
'For two decades audiences have been enthralled by this story about the coming of age of both a group of individuals and the country in which they live. Despite being set almost 40 years ago, this multi-award winning play is as relevant as ever with its themes of reconciliation and loss.
'Away is sharply observed, clever, funny and yet very moving. Out of the familiar family ingredients, Gow has constructed a magical play that every Australian can relate to. It depicts the hopes of a new generation, prompting us to consider what is ultimately most important in our lives.' (Publication summary)
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The Rivers of China,
single work
drama
Based on the life of New Zealand author, Katherine Mansfield.