In a new production of this superb Australian play, Holden Street Theatres presents Patrick White’s greatest play, A Cheery Soul, starring Martha Lott as Miss Docker, this September.
A Cheery Soul is celebrated as Australia’s only Nobel Prize for Literature Laureate’s funniest and most trenchant play. A dark comedy set in the suburb of Sarsaparilla, 30 km from Sydney in 1959.
At the heart of the story is Miss Docker (Martha Lott), an ostensibly nice, helpful woman and a cheery soul who wreaks havoc on all. Miss Docker is one of the most unforgettable characters in Australian drama.
An over-pruned tomato plant, a damaged roast, a nursing home, a church and the destructive power of good. Just when you thought it was safe to be nostalgic about our suburban past along comes… Miss Docker.
A Cheery Soul is the fourth production from the award-winning main stage company Holden Street Theatres 2024 season and an ode to one of Australia’s most revered theatrical writers, Patrick White.
Directed and designed by Peter Goers, A Cheery Soul will feature Martha Lott, David Arcidiaco, Catherine Campbell, Christopher Cordeaux, Jo Coventry, Robert Cusenza, Ron Hoenig, Sandi McMenamin, David O’Brien, Sue Wylie and introducing Amelia Lott-Watson as Narelle
According to Holden Street Theatres Artistic Director Martha Lott, who also stars as Miss Docker in this production, A Cheery Soul is set to enthral South Australian audiences. “A Cheery Soul is a brilliant play that transcends time. It’s equally as dark and funny in 2024 as it was in its debut in 1963,” she said.
“As one of Australia’s most significant works it gives me great joy to not only present A Cheery Soul as part of Holden Street Theatres 2024 program, but also perform one of the most iconic roles as the unforgettable Miss Docker.”
“This production is the vision of the legendary Peter Goers and features a leading cast and creative team under Peter’s esteemed direction. A Cheery Soul is set to be the talk of the town and the hottest theatre ticket this spring,” said Lott.
For Peter Goers A Cheery Soul is set to be yet another career highlight at his beloved Holden Street Theatres. “A Cheery Soul is one of the most magnificent pieces of Australian theatre,” he said.
“It’s language, satire and exploration into suburban Australia culture is devastating and very funny. It’s such a privilege to work with a wonderful cast of creatives at Adelaide’s true home of theatre.”
Director & Designer: Peter Goers | Featuring: David Arcidiaco, Catherine Campbell, Christopher Cordeaux, Jessica Corrie, Jo Coventry, Robert Cusenza, Ron Hoenig, Martha Lott, Amelia Lott-Watson, Sandi McMenamin, David O’Brien, Sue Wylie | Lighting Designer: Martin Smith | Stage Manager: Johnothan Holds | Technician: Kesson Reilly | Assistant Director: Brian Wellington
A Cheery Soul
The Studio – Holden Street Theatres, 32 – 34 Holden Street, Hindmarsh (Adelaide)
Season: 26 September – 12 October 2024 (preview: 25 September)
Information and Bookings: www.holdenstreettheatres.com
Image: Martha Lott stars as Miss Docker – photo by Toni Lee