Sutherland Pavilion’s Most Ambitious Production Yet
Toy Symphony, Sutherland Pavilion’s first self-produced play, stars local talent and marks a major milestone for the iconic venue
Toy Symphony Cast
Sutherland Pavilion has long been the place we head to for big-name productions, live music, comedy shows and touring performances. But this June, the Sutherland venue is stepping into a brand new era with something a little different and a whole lot more personal.
For the very first time, Sutherland Pavilion is producing its own theatre work completely from scratch, and they’re doing it with a story that feels deeply connected to the Shire itself.
Running from June 18th to the 20th, Toy Symphony is the Helpmann Award-winning play written and directed by renowned Australian playwright Michael Gow, who grew up in the Sutherland Shire and drew inspiration for the story from his own experiences living locally.
Michael Gow is one of Australia’s most celebrated playwrights, with students studying his work in schools across the country and productions performed around the world. But despite the global recognition, this production marks something of a creative homecoming, with Gow returning to the Shire to direct the play himself.
Timed to coincide with Sutherland Pavilion’s 50th anniversary year, Toy Symphony feels like the perfect choice for the venue’s first self-produced work.
“It’s a nice marriage of professional theatre meets local community,” explains Emilie Lawson from the Sutherland Pavilion team. And honestly, that’s exactly what makes this production feel so special.
Alongside Gow at the helm is a cast featuring emerging and established performers who call the Shire home, giving local talent the chance to step onto a professional stage right here in their own community.
Set against themes of creativity, memory and mental health, Toy Symphony follows Roland, a playwright facing extreme writer’s block, who attempts to get his mojo back by reconnecting with his past through music, memories and childhood experiences. Woven throughout are references to growing up in the Shire during the ‘80s and ‘90s, including moments inspired by life in Como and the impact of the bushfires, giving audiences familiar nods throughout. It’s thoughtful, emotional and packed with layered storytelling that lingers long after the curtain drops.
The production stars Sam O’Sullivan as Roland, with the full cast and creative team helping bring the story to life entirely in-house, from casting and direction through to marketing and production. It’s a huge undertaking for the Sutherland Pavilion team and one that signals an exciting new direction for the venue moving forward.
And because no good night out is complete without a pre-show drink, Sutherland Pavilion’s bar will also be serving cocktails, drinks and snacks for guests wanting to make a full evening of it.
There’ll be just three performances only across the 18th to the 20th, including two evening shows and a Friday matinee, with a possible fourth performance to be added if tickets move quickly.
So whether you’re a theatre regular, someone who loves supporting local creatives, or you’re simply curious to see Sutherland Pavilion’s next chapter unfold, Toy Symphony is shaping up to be one worth booking in for. Tickets are available now via Sutherland Pavilion’s website.
