Based on the book by acclaimed Australian author Peter Goldsworthy, Riverside’s National Theatre of Parramatta will present the world-premiere production of Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam in the Lennox Theatre from 18 October 2018.
Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam is a play that goes straight to the heart and asks how far would you go to protect your family, what promises should be made to a child and would you ultimately die for a loved one. Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam is a powerful reminder of what we do for those we love.
An evocative, haunting and moving tale, Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam is based on the novella by acclaimed Australian author Peter Goldsworthy, adapted by Steve Rodgers (King of Pigs, Food) and directed by Darren Yap (Miracle City, Diving for Pearls). The play was the inaugural winner of the Lysicrates Prize.
With a stellar cast of six, the story explores the world of an ideal family, The Pollards, who have boycotted society and its evils to create a cocoon for a perfect world, defining their lives through each other. When illness breaches the sanctuary, their world is flipped on its head.
Emma Jackson (Force Majeure’s Food by Steve Rodgers) and Justin Smith (Sydney Theatre Company’s The Long Forgotten Dream and Griffin Theatre Company’s A Strategic Plan) play the parents while the children are performed by Liam Nunan (Sydney Theatre Company’s Away) and 13-year-old Grace Truman (web series Amazing Grace). Valerie Bader and Mark Lee also feature.
“When I first read Peter Goldsworthy’s novella, I was deeply moved, disturbed and enthralled,” said Director Darren Yap. “And I never guessed the ending! Steve has done an incredible job with the adaptation which is tender, confronting and thrilling. It’s a uniquely Australian play but its themes are universal. It’s a story full of pain and full of love, where family is everything.”
Director: Darren Yap Featuring: Valerie Bader, Emma Jackson, Mark Lee, Liam Nunan, Justin Smith, Grace Truman Lighting Designer: Verity Hampson Set and Costume Designer: Emma Vine Composition and Sound Designer: Max Lambert and Sean Peter Stage Manager: Cara Woods
Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam
Lennox Theatre – Riverside Theatres, Corner Church and Market Streets, Parramatta
Season: 18 – 27 October 2018
Information and Bookings: www.riversideparramatta.com.au
Image: Liam Nunan stars in Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam (supplied)