Cirrus@Austlit

Evelyn Carrol leaves the country town where she grew up and goes to Sydney to work for Blue, an author of children's books. Blue inhabits a mysterious stone cathedral, Blackrock, which rises up out of Sydney Harbour. Acting as Evelyn's mentor, Blue leads Evelyn on a journey of self-discovery that is at once magical, sensuous and frightening. Must she completely surrender her own sense of reality to access this infinitely more seductive world? A what price is she prepared to learn the truth that lies hidden within the walls of Blackrock?

(Source: Currency Press)

'Commencing with a school performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the Shakespearean themes of suffering and reconciliation persist as three families on separate holidays are united during a fierce storm.

'Immigrants Harry and Vic love their adopted country but are faced with their son Tom’s terminal illness. Jim and Gwen fret over their daughter Meg’s blossoming independence and her friendship with the socially unsuitable Tom. Roy is unable to console a grief-stricken Coral over the death of their only son in Vietnam.

'But with the help of some Shakespearean fairies and a spectacular storm, these families are reconciled and face the future anew.

'For two decades audiences have been enthralled by this story about the coming of age of both a group of individuals and the country in which they live. Despite being set almost 40 years ago, this multi-award winning play is as relevant as ever with its themes of reconciliation and loss.

'Away is sharply observed, clever, funny and yet very moving. Out of the familiar family ingredients, Gow has constructed a magical play that every Australian can relate to. It depicts the hopes of a new generation, prompting us to consider what is ultimately most important in our lives.' (Publication summary)