MY IMAGINARY FAMILY

Graheme Bond has been on Australia’s entertainment scene for longer than I’ve been alive. He’s a veteran of local television, appearing on ABC’s popular Aunty Jack in the 70s, followed by Nick from Kindavick, Wollongong the Brave, The Off Show, and the 80s’ News Free Zone. Turning his attention to musical theatre, co-writing Boy’s Own McBeth with Jim Burnett, and later Captain Bloody, a tribute to Errol Flynn.

Next up for the prolific performer is My Imaginary Family, a story tracing a bizarre childhood, a chaotic period of schooling, a ridiculous University education during the sexual revolution, and finally a degree in Architecture. The show will feature stories and songs, performed with Bond’s trademark humour, whimsy and pathos as he tracks a life of constantly changing roles on a quest to find the perfect imaginary family.

“My Imaginary Family is really my memoirs put to music,” says Bond.  “My career has been a roller-coaster ride of highs and lows, but I must say, success wasn’t necessarily the most rewarding thing for me, I think I learned a lot more recovering from my failures.” What made a Marrickville boy from a straight-laced, working class family end up earning a living wearing a frock, a fat suit and a gold boxing glove on national television? Get along to Riverside Theatres to find out.

April 17 – 28, Riverside Theatres, Cnr Church and Market Sts, Parramatta, $30 – 47, 8839 3399 or www.riversideparramatta.com.au