They say laughter is the best medicine, and Sandgate Theatre is dishing out the dose with their latest production.
Opening this month, Happiness is an insightful comedy by David Williamson, brought to life by director Catherine Radbourne.
Catherine said she wanted to direct an Australian comedy to end the year and turned to Williamson’s work, which she studied at university.
“When I came across Happiness, I liked the main theme of the play – finding happiness in life beyond materialism; it was a comedy; had great characters; a simple set, and a smallish cast,” she said. “It ticked a lot of boxes that made it a good choice.”
Exploring the Meaning of True Happiness
The play follows Roland, a psychologist who believes he’s uncovered the secret to happiness. But while he lectures on wellbeing, his family life tells a different story. His wife Hanna is restless, and their daughter Zelda, an environmental journalist, is struggling at work and in life. When Roland offers Zelda bold strategies to boost her happiness, the family discovers that happiness isn’t so easily achieved.
Catherine said the show is not only entertaining but also deeply thought-provoking in the suggestions it makes for the journey to happiness.
“As a cast and crew, we have all been finding it almost therapeutic in our analysis of the text and the potential real-world implications of putting these things into practice,” she said.
“We have a wonderful and very talented cast who all bring a lot of experience to their role.”
The cast includes Jeremy Wellwood as Roland, Lara Hinton as Zelda, Toby Chittenden as Zelda’s boss Evan, Connel Faulkner as her work colleague Richard and former classmate Ronnie, Claire Marchesi as Hanna, and Grant Caldwell as Sam, Hanna’s ex-lover.
Claire said it was an amazing opportunity to debut with Sandgate Theatre in a play by David Williamson, who she described as an “iconic Australian playwright”.
“I hope the audience will think beyond the superficial signifiers of happiness: wealth, success, physical attractiveness and consider more deeply what true happiness looks like for them,” she said.
Catherine said that while the show hasn’t been performed in the area, its themes are relatable to almost everyone.
“At this time of the year, many of us will be reflecting on the year that has been, and thinking about changes we might like to make, to make our lives better in some way, shape or form,” she said. “We hope that the show provides some keys to lasting happiness, and we sincerely hope it will make you happy for the duration of the production.”
Sandgate Theatre Inc presents Happiness by David Williamson
- 21 November to 6 December
- Sandgate Town Hall
- Seymour Street, Sandgate
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