"It is up to the individual to draw from their own wellspring of self-belief." Overcoming writers block with Ad Astra
Toy Symphony is an Australian play by Michael Gow, which wrestles with the notorious writers block, that challenges even the most prolific of artists. Under the direction of Michelle Carey, you can see this enjoyable production at the local theatre house Ad Astra. We spoke to Director Michelle Carey to catch up after the full-house opening weekend.
Image + cover image: Christopher Sharman
Why did you choose this play?
We chose this play for several reasons. Firstly, the overarching theme of a playwright who is struggling with writers’ block is a metaphor for anyone who has struggled with the creative process. No matter what drives you as a human being, we all have a creative muscle and at times, it needs massaging!
Delving into Roland Henning’s past and playing with the concepts of imagination and memory was a perfect way to exploit the style of magical realism. It gave me as a director, the chance to play with ideas and characters that were larger than life. There is a freedom in not sticking to Realism which is exciting and pushes actors out of their comfort zones. This is where you can really sense the skill and passion of actors, and I believe, see them at their best.
What has the rehearsal process been like?
We have had a long rehearsal process due to some virus you may have heard about! We were originally meant to open in February, but the Covid wave put a lid on that, and we postponed until April. Along the way, we lost a few actors, right up until production week when one of our ensemble came down with the dreaded C!
We survived due to an ensemble who were resilient, generous, and passionate. Rehearsals were intense, but I am not exaggerating when I say that all of us learnt many skills throughout this process. Our patience and resilience were tested, but we came out the other side much strong and better for it!
Image: Christopher Sharman
Apart from these challenges, it has been an incredibly fun and creative process for all of us. Everyone has been encouraged to have input into the final product, and I think this has made the production richer, and allows us all to feel a sense of ownership.
How was opening night, what was the reception like?
We had a full house on opening night and people had lots of positive responses. Audiences were surprised by the humour and drama in equal measure. For the cast and crew, it was wonderful to finally make it to the stage, play in the space, and perform to a live audience after so many setbacks during the process. Many audience members have mentioned how impressed they were, not only with Toy Symphony, but the Ad Astra theatre itself, which has had a huge makeover in the past couple of months.
What is the important message of this play?
The important message of this play is that we are all carrying baggage! Therapy can help, delving into past traumas can help, but ultimately it is up to the individual to draw from their own wellspring of self-belief, to come to a place of peace. Accepting our imperfections and focusing on our strengths will open the creative floodgates!
Image: Christopher Sharman
Who else has presented this play and how does this interpretation add to it?
Toy Symphony was produced by Queensland Theatre Company in 2007, and Belvoir St Theatre in Sydney in 2009. Both productions were well received, with Richard Roxburgh playing Roland Henning in the Belvoir St production, and our own Barb Lowing playing Mrs Walkham for Qld Theatre Company. We are proud to bring the play alive again after well over 10 years, and hope that our interpretation honours and enhances previous productions.
Tell us about the cast and their dynamic together
We have a cast of skilled, brave, passionate actors. Real and imagined characters emerge from the recesses of the mind of Roland Henning, expertly played by actor, Gregory Wilken. He is supported by an awe-inspiring ensemble of Bernadette Pryde, Caitlin Hill, Sam Webb, Greg Scurr, Jonathan Weir and Lachlan Stuart.
Our cast has had to overcome many obstacles including Covid, floods and Brisbane weather, which has ultimately made us a strong and resilient team. In the rehearsal room, we have worked as an ensemble, where all ideas are valued, sifted and worked through for the best outcome. There have been much laughter and a few tears, but always a sense of respect and awe of the various talents that each person brings.
Image: Christopher Sharman
Who is this play perfect for?
The play is perfect for anyone who has ever suffered from a creative block…there are many words for that – procrastination, avoidance, mental block, lack of inspiration etc etc – but it is universally known and understood! If you enjoy live theatre that is both funny and dramatic, deep and light-hearted, then you will love it. Our space is intimate and cosy, and our set invites the audience into another world – the world of imagination and memory. If you want to lose yourself for a couple of hours in a good, imaginative story, this is a must see.
Is there anything else that audiences MUST know about the show?
Ad Astra Theatre is a unique space in that it is literally a black box, intimate and close, and unlike other bigger theatres where you have a ‘safe’ distance between actors and audience. At Ad Astra, you are right in the action, which is so exciting, allowing you to almost feel the heartbeat of the actors!
As there are some sexual references throughout, it’s not appropriate for a younger audience.
Toy Symphony shows until May 14 at Ad Astra, Fortitude Valley.
