Butterflies are Free at Arts Theatre Cronulla

Arts Theatre Cronulla presents Butterflies are Free by Leonard Gershe from February 17, their first production for 2017.

Audiences may be familiar with this American comedy-drama via the 1972 movie version starring Goldie Hawn, which centres on the struggle of a son trying to break free from the smothering constraints of his over-protective mother. Aspiring singer-songwriter Don Baker (James Phipps) has been blind since birth, making it hard to establish his independence, but when the play opens he has just moved into his own apartment in New York and is determined to make a life for himself.

Don has obtained the agreement of his mother (Jennifer Birdsall) to not visit for two months, but when liberated and sexy actress Jill Tanner (Kirstie Bolitho) moves in next door and they become fast friends then lovers, a showdown is inevitable. Don learns things his mother would never have been able to teach him but an obstacle to happily ever after arrives in the form of caustic casting director Ralph Austen (William Gabriel/Alan Smith). Ralph tempts Jill away and Don’s resolve to be a truly independent man is sorely tested.

Director Neil Moulang says he has had this play on his bucket list for some time, and is pleased to have a very talented cast to finally bring it to life. The vintage clothes and fun set will evoke memories of the 1970’s hippie era for many, as will the makeshift furniture and bare necessities for everyday living that reflect the reality for many young people ‘leaving the nest’ for the first time.

The play opens on 17 February and runs till 25 March, 2017. Performances are on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with 3 Sunday afternoon matinees. Full details and online bookings can be made via the theatre’s website: www.artsthetrecronulla.com.au

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