A tale of dreams and deception will soon hit the local stage, with Billy Liar bringing its mix of humour and drama to Act 1 Theatre.
Described as a heartfelt comedy, the play, written by Keith Waterhouse and Willis Hall, will run from 5 June to 21 June, directed by John Sayles.
John said that although Billy Liar was classed as a comedy, “it has a blend of humour and poignant drama”.
“There’s a dysfunctional family, themes of escapism and the struggle of working-class youth in the 1960s,” John said. “Billy Liar was a play, then a film and TV series, and I loved all forms.”
With years of experience in North Brisbane’s community theatre scene, John has previously directed two full-length productions and several short plays for Act 1 Theatre, which he said “gained success on the south east Queensland theatre festival circuit”.
“Bringing this play (Billy Liar) to Act 1 Theatre will be a big tick on my bucket list,” he said.
Set in a Northern English town, the story follows Billy Fisher, a restless young dreamer who escapes his ordinary life through elaborate fantasies and a web of lies. As he juggles three fiancées and struggles to separate reality from imagination, Billy is forced to choose between pursuing a new life or remaining in the comfort of his illusions.
Cast Prepares for Yorkshire Challenge
The cast will all be adopting accents for the production.
“This play is set in a 1960’s Yorkshire town, so the actors have the challenge of developing subtle Northern English accents during the rehearsal period for their roles,” John said.
Casper Young, who plays the lead role of Billy, said that he had been studying media in relation to the play’s setting, background and in particular, the accents, and building his vocal skills.
“It’s an area I haven’t explored deeply before, and I’m wholeheartedly enjoying immersing myself in it,” Casper said.
Casper, who has previously appeared at Act 1 Theatre in Highland Fling, Big Ol’ Bruce and An Awkward Affair, as well as in school productions overseas, said Billy Fisher was a character unlike any he had encountered before.
“He’s caught in the middle of his own subterfuge, dreams, and reality, and flies for most of the play by the seat of his pants,” he said. “I’m definitely looking forward to the feeling of relentless momentum he gives throughout the show.”
Billy Liar
- 5 June to 21 June
- Act 1 Theatre (Old Shire Hall)
- 238 Gympie Road, Strathpine
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