A ground-breaking musical, The Sunshine Club, written and directed by the internationally acclaimed Wesley Enoch AM, is playing at the Griffith Regional Theatre for one night only on Wednesday 26 July 2023.
It tells the story of Frank Doyle, an Aboriginal serviceman who has come home from World War II to find that although the wider world may have changed, attitudes back home in Brisbane are just the same. Filled with a defiant energy and ambition for a better life, Frank starts The Sunshine Club, a place where black and white can meet and, most importantly, dance. Here he dreams of a future where he can dance in step with Rose, the girl next door, the girl of his dreams.
Director and writer Wesley Enoch said "I initially wrote this as a way of bringing people together, especially in the reconciliation movement, this notion of black and white dancing together and the stories of our history, especially post World War II, in this post or living with COVID world, it'll be even more important to see that cultural bonds can be formed by gathering as groups and dealing with social issues together."
Patrons will enjoy a variety of music styles with 28 songs composed by the esteemed John Rodgers and a five-piece live band. Featuring a cast of 11, including emerging and established First Nations artists, this show is not just a joyous musical with a talented cast, but also a story of history and an optimistic message of community strength.
The original production opened at QPAC in 1999, then it went onto the Sydney Opera House and now it is on its way to Griffith.
Marg Andreazza, said "It has been described as 'an unashamedly feel-good musical' but patrons will take away more than just great tunes, The Sunshine Club will be a humorous, thought-provoking and entertaining night at the Theatre."
The Sunshine Club, at Griffith Regional Theatre on Wednesday 26 July 8pm, is produced by HIT Productions and is recommended for ages 15 and up. Theatre members can bring a friend for free, and tickets can be purchased from the Box Office, by calling 6962 8444 or visiting www.griffithregionaltheatre.com.au
