Hot on the heels of his acclaimed stage adaptation of The Monkey's Mask, Pete Nettell directs an electrifying new version of Alex Harding's classic Australian musical, Only Heaven Knows. Recast with new characters and music, this remarkable tribute to Sydney bohemia and chic in the 40s and 50s finds exciting new life and relevance to Australia today.
Narrated by the ghost of a dead drag queen, the outrageously flamboyant, true-life performer Lea Sonia (move over Paul Capsis!), Only Heaven Knows tells the story of an unforgettable group of individuals determined to experience their own sense of belonging, away from the conservative gaze of suburbia. But their efforts to live life to the full soon come under the spotlight as the anxieties of a country adrift in a turbulent and changing world begin to take hold. And, as introspection, timidity and intolerance overtake the country with the election of the conservative Menzies government, they find their personal freedoms and values under attack as never before.
Bursting with colour and life, Only Heaven Knows captures the essential heart of Sydney at a time when its warmth and optimism are perhaps more imperative than ever before.
Introducing the exciting talent of Paul Flynn as Tim, the role made famous by actor/singer David Campbell, and featuring an expanded and talented cast of actors and musicians, this exciting new version of one of Australia's best-loved musical dramas is guaranteed to make you laugh, cheer and cry.
Director: Pete Nettell Musical Director: John Short
Choreographer: Gill Falson Set Designer: Wayne Harris
Costume Designer: Lynette Ruwoldt
Lighting Designer: Stephen Hawker
Cast: Benjamin O'Reilly, Paul Flynn, Alice Livingstone, George Hoad, Mark Fuller, Lloyd King, Mary Lindsay, Don Ferguson and Karren Lewis