THE SHIRALEE

By D’Arcy Niland
Adapted for the stage by Kate Mulvany
Directed by Jessica Arthur

A love song to the open road 

Bathed in the golden light of an outback sunset, this epic Australian classic comes to the stage for the first time, adapted by Kate Mulvany – the renowned actor and playwright behind The Harp in the South: Part One and Part Two and Playing Beatie Bow. The Shiralee combines a ranging and poetic story of life and love on the margins with a spectacular cast featuring Mulvany herself (appearing onstage at STC for the first time in sixteen years), Josh McConville (Death of a Salesman), Aaron Pedersen (The Visitors) and Ziggy Resnick, making their STC debut in the iconic role of Buster.

Macauley (McConville) is a rugged swagman who roams the highways and byways of mid-century Australia, taking on odd jobs to survive. Buster is Macauley’s young daughter, living with her separated mother Marge (Mulvany), in a neglectful home in Sydney. When Macauley discovers Buster’s circumstances he takes her on the road with him, despite his hesitations around fatherhood. Over the course of their travels, Macauley begins to develop a deep connection with his daughter, and Buster soon discovers her voice in a strange and vast new world.

Hot on the heels of the national sensation The Dictionary of Lost Words, director Jessica Arthur returns to the Company with this glorious new play about a father-daughter bond that blooms in a harsh and unforgiving world.

As Buster’s innocence, resilience, and grit gradually soften Macauley’s heart, audiences will be swept away into a story as rich and beautiful as the outback landscape.

Approx. duration 2 hr 10 mins (including interval). Subject to change.
Content Strong language, mature themes including violence, alcohol and drug addiction. Subject to change.