By Hollie Harris
IN a flowing production directed by Liza Park, Dylan Thomas’ masterpiece Under Milk Wood, comes to life at Noosa Arts Theatre from 18 November.
Both a play and a poem written from the heart, Under Milk Wood which first aired on BBC radio in 1954, offers an unforgettable journey into the roots of language and the soul of Wales.
This lyrically written, riotously funny and deeply moving portrait of the circle of a spring day in the small Welsh seaside village begins with ghosts and dreams before dawn, the brilliance and noise of day, to the rain of dusk and the bawdy night.
The sleepy fishing village is inhabited by a cast of charming, eccentric locals where people sit and wait while pining for lost, unrequited or unconsummated love. Their world is small, but they are all connected to one another.
During the production, a small ensemble cast of nine actors master a total of sixty-four characters, along with two narrators playing 1st and 2nd Voice.
Noosa Arts Theatre’s production features a daringly innovative use of lighting, space, props and sets, skilfully bringing the story to life.
Director Liza Park said audiences have loved Under Milk Wood for decades because it’s about humanity.
“It is sad and beautiful and inspiring and funny,” Liza said.
“We look at the characters and, in the words of the play, from where we are, we can hear their dreams. And they might just be our dreams.
“It is a magnificent piece of work by a man considered the greatest poet of the 20th century,” she said.
Don’t miss this uniquely captivating piece of physical theatre at Noosa Arts Theatre beginning with a cut-price preview November 17 at 7.30pm; evenings on 18, 24 and 25 November at 7.30pm; or matinees 19, 20, 26 and 27 November at 2pm.
Book online www.noosaartstheatre.org.au or phone 5449 9343 or at the theatre, Tuesday to Friday, 9am to 2pm, 163 Weyba Road, Noosaville.
