OUR COUNTRY'S GOOD is based on the incredible true story of the first English play staged in Australia. We spoke to the show's Director, CHRIS AVERY, to find out more.
What is the play about?
Courage, resilience and the power of hope to overcome adversity. Based on the remarkable true story of the first play ever to be staged in Australia, not by a troupe of travelling actors but by the convicts themselves inspired by the Colony's Governor, Captain Phillips.
It's not a comedy then?
Surprisingly, it often is. Although the play doesn't shy away from the brutality of the situation it's all the more remarkable that such powerful subject matter is interlaced with humour, understanding and empathy.
Why might we have heard of the play before?
Having achieved several theatre awards including the prestigious Laurence Olivier Award for Best Play of the Year, it has inspired students for many years as a set text for students of Drama and English.
What's your favourite line from the play?
Hard to choose - but maybe Captain Phillip's own words about the play 'we laugh, we may be moved, we may even think a little'.
Finally, what can audiences expect from the production?
To be entertained, to discover a remarkable event in history that demonstrated the power of art to transform lives and an inspiring insight into the ability of the human spirit to overcome adversity with courage and humour.