Margaret River high school takes on Australian drama

Written in 1986 but set in the late 1960s, Away takes place during the Australian summer and according to MRSHS Head of Learning (The Arts)  Mem McCormack, is a journey fuelled by despair and a chance to believe in life, and love.

“In this beautiful play a young boy is dead and another is dying,” Ms McCormack said. 

“Every character is keeping up facades while struggling with secret emotional lives.

“Young Australians are shedding the conservatism of the early sixties and getting ready to fight for freedom from war, sexism and bigotry.

“The play very consciously references this period of political change.”

While this is not Ms McCormack’s first time directing Away, she said it is the first time the young cast has had the opportunity to interpret the script and put their own spin on the tale.

“They bring a fresh interpretation and together we have worked on enhancing the Shakespearian links and the use of song and symbolism in the play,” she said. 

The characters share, hurt, heal and prepare to say goodbye as someone far too young finds the courage to ‘Unburden’d crawl toward death’.

“Our production has been well supported with lighting design by Ian Rooke, vocal training by Michelle Spriggs and set construction by Andrew Seisun along with loads of help from staff, parents and friends.

“I am proud to be offering our community the work of such talented, committed young actors,” Ms McCormack said of her hard working students. 

Away will play Monday April 3 until Thursday April 6 nightly from 7pm. A complimentary sweets will be served at interval and the concludes at approximately 9.30pm. 

Tickets are $10 for students/concessions and $15 for adults and are on sale now through the school front office.