State Theatre Company of South Australia has partnered with Queensland Theatre Company to present Michael Gow’s Toy Symphony.

This fine new play by the writer of the Australian stage classic Away is a compelling journey of personal self-discovery and regeneration.

“Toy Symphony contains all the elements that make Michael Gow one of Australia’s greatest playwrights: a razor sharp balancing act between comedy and tragedy, beautifully drawn characters, and a story that celebrates the power of the imagination,” says Director Geordie Brookman.

“In his leading character Roland, Michael has brought to life a sparkling creation; a confident, successful, articulate man whose life is nonetheless fraying at the edges.”

Toy Symphony is the story of gifted playwright Roland Henning, who is trying to convince his sceptical therapist Nina that he doesn’t have writer’s block. It’s just that, well, he can’t write anymore ...

With Nina’s help, Roland reluctantly recalls his primary school days in the outer Sydney suburb of Como, and the extraordinary day that shattered his boyhood, plunging him headlong into the dizzy circus of art and life. But as Roland remains adamant that he is beyond help and will never write again, a chance discovery offers him a chance of salvation. Will he grasp it or slip back into old habits? Toy Symphony is a rare insight into the heart and mind of the artist and the inescapable power of memory.

The production will be directed by Geordie Brookman and designed by Jonathon Oxlade, and stars Lizzy Falkland, Barbara Lowing, Daniel Mulvihill, Christopher Pitman and Ed Wightman.

Toy Symphony begins at the Dunstan Playhouse on 28 January, following a successful season in Brisbane late last year.

For more information visit www.statetheatrecompany.com.au