Alison Whyte replaces Greta Scacchi in STC Travelling North

Greta Scacchi has had to withdraw from Sydney Theatre Company’s forthcoming production of Travelling North by David Williamson, due to a recently sustained back injury. Unfortunately, on medical advice she is unable to continue with the production and Alison Whyte will take on the role of Frances.

STC Artistic Director Andrew Upton said: “Greta leaves the production with the very best wishes of everyone at STC and all our hopes for her speedy recovery. I am disappointed that audiences will not have the opportunity to see the fruits of her labours in the rehearsal room. She has been a wonderful company member and will be much missed.

“However, we are very fortunate that Alison Whyte is available to take on the role of Frances and I am confident that with the support of the rest of the Travelling North cast and crew she will do a wonderful job,” Upton said.

Set in the early 1970s, David Williamson’s classic play tells the story of Frank (played Bryan Brown) a grumpy old bugger for whom Frances has inexplicably fallen. He spirits her away up north from chilly Melbourne, seeking warmer climes and a change in lifestyle, to the horror and inconvenience of their children.

Alison Whyte was last seen at Sydney Theatre Company in 2012 in the highly successful Australia Day by Jonathan Biggins.

The cast also includes Harriet Dyer, Russell Kiefel, Emily Russell, Andrew Tighe and Sara West.

The first preview is cancelled and due to the late cast change, critics and other media will now be invited to attend the production from Friday 17 January.

TRAVELLING NORTH by David Williamson

10 January – 22 March 2014.

Wharf 1, STC, The Wharf, Pier 4/5, Hickson Road, Walsh Bay

Director: Andrew Upton, Designer: David Fleischer, Lighting Designer: Nick Schlieper, Sound Designer: Steve Francis

Box Office: 02 9250 1777. sydneytheatre.com.au 

From the media release - January 9, 2014