Morning Sacrifice

It is a rare occasion indeed when audiences get to see a play by such a renowned writer from an earlier generation.

Thanks to Rough Hewn Theatre Troupe’s founder Geoff Cartwright, audiences can enjoy Dymphna Cusack’s play Morning Sacrifice, which is billed as her response to “years of dissatisfaction with teaching” in the education system of the day, namely the late 1930s.

What attracted director Geoff Cartwright to this play? He says that it “aspires to a more innovative and lively teaching practice.”

Cartwright admits that the syntax and dialogue may be out of common usage, but “the play’s dialectic on education’s purpose and its advocacy for a greater place for women in the work force remain vibrantly alive.”

Love is a major concern of Cusack’s play, which “posits lovelessness as the root of bitterness and lack of generosity in human relationships,” Cartwright says.

“There are myriad reasons love may elude people. The absence of love in a life may lead to insularity and bitterness. The generous see love as a positive; the loveless often see it as irksome.”

Rough Hewn Theatre Troupe was formed 13 years ago at the invitation of Stella Maris College staff, who looked at the school’s resources and wanted to offer a place for wider community use. 

The company provided opportunities for young people to practise their craft until such time as they might head off to drama school or become drama teachers. 

It is a logical extension of Stella Maris’ education of young women as well as allowing more experienced women a place in the company.

Until Oct 26. The Star Of The Sea Theatre, Cnr Iluka Ave & Collingwood St, Manly. $15-$30+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.trybooking.com

By Irina Dunn