Our SA Premiere of Arrivals and Departures opens 25 July
And it’s not only a poignant comedy of unexpected connection, but also a deeply personal one for its cast.
Nick Fagan, who directed Dealer’s Choice for Blue Sky Theatre, is stepping back into the spotlight as Barry Hawkins, the cheerfully oblivious traffic warden thrust into the middle of an anti-terrorist sting.
But there’s another twist: appearing in key moments of Barry’s life is none other than Nick’s daughter, Millie Fagan, playing a range of characters in Barry’s touching and sometimes hilarious flashbacks.
“It’s a joy and a challenge,” says Nick. “To share the stage with Millie in such an emotionally rich piece is special—it’s moving in ways I didn’t expect.”
The theme of theatre as a family affair doesn’t end there. The role of Private Esmé “Ez” Swain, Barry’s reluctant protector and a soldier with her emotional wounds, is played by Emily Currie, a much-loved presence on Blue Sky’s stages. Joining her is her goddaughter, Zoe Battersby, a rising star in the city’s acting scene, who also plays roles from Ez’s troubled past.
“This production is about the people who shape us,” says Emily. “To have Zoe on stage with me, bringing to life the ghosts of Ez’s past, adds a layer of authenticity you don’t often get.”
Director Dave Simms says what makes this production particularly powerful is the amount of real-life connection happening on stage. “There’s a depth of feeling that only families—born or chosen—can bring,” he says.
The comedy is rich, and we’re never left without it for long.
We are on a London rail platform cleared for SSDO (Strategic Simulated Distraction Ops) to meet an arriving train and corral a suspected bomber. The opening minutes are bubblingly hysterical as Major Sexton struggles to direct a bored and unmotivated squad of soldiers unconvincingly disguised as the public (a cast of 10 plays 30 parts).
Yet the heart of the play is a two-hander as the bare benches become other stations, airports and places where people met long ago.
Please join us to experience the real-life relationships that bring this poignant comedy to life. The show is 60% sold already, so don’t delay and book your tickets today.
Friday 25 July at 7.30 pm
Saturday 26 July at 4.00 pm (limited availability)
Sunday 27 July at 4.00 pm
Friday 1 August at 7.30 pm
Saturday 2 August at 4.00 pm (limited availability)
Sunday 3 August at 4.00 pm
Domain Theatre, Marion Cultural Centre
287 Diagonal Road, Oaklands Park
Tickets are $40 Full / $35 Concession
Presented by arrangement with ORiGiN™ Theatrical on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. – A Concord Theatricals Company.