Classic Australian story to be played out on stage

The stage production of Cosi is one of Susan O’Toole-Cridland’s favourite shows.

With a theatre background spanning more than 35 years, Susan says she has been involved in multiple productions of this Australian storyline.

“This is actually my fourth time being involved in a production of Cosi,” Susan says.

“I played the role of Julie twice in my early 20s and I directed a different version about eight years ago.”

Susan is now directing 10 enthusiastic actors from Ghostlight Theatre Co for their rendition, which will open to the public on April 21.

Written by Louis Nowra, the story of Cosi is set in 1970s Australia.

This semi-autobiographical introduces us to an older Lewis (who some audience members may know from Nowra’s earlier play Summer of the Aliens).

Lewis is now a university graduate who takes on a job of putting on a play – with a colourful cast of patients from a local mental asylum.

While Lewis, under the strong influence of girlfriend Lucy and best mate Nick, plans on staging a meaningful play such as the likes of Brecht, his plans are thwarted when he discovers one of these patients has other ideas - An opera. Performed by madmen. In a burnt-out theatre. With just a piano. Oh, and none of them can actually sing.

Susan says each time she runs through the script something new about the play and the characters jump out at her.

“Every time I have been involved in this show, I have got something new from the text, or discovered something I had previously missed,” Susan says.

“Being able to bring a new production of this to life which is quite different to the last time I was involved has been incredible.”

The cast have been rehearsing since February.

Ghostlight Theatre Co is a new theatre company based in the Moreton Bay Region. It was founded in 2022 with Susan being one of the co-founders.

“I have been involved with theatre for over 35 years and have been directing for about 25 of those years,” Susan explains.

“I absolutely love what I do. I love seeing a show take shape and change and evolve. And I feel like I keep learning on every show I do.”

Susan is hoping for some big crowds to come and enjoy a night out at the theatre.

“Please come along and support local theatre,” Susan says.

“Cosi is a beautiful Australian play that will make you laugh out loud and fall in love with the chaos that ensues.”

Reserve your seat

Ghostlight Theatre Co will present Cosi over eight big shows on April 21, 23, 23, 28, 29 and 30.

Tickets start at $30 for adults, $25 for concession and children. There is also the option to add on a sweet, savoury and fruit platter.

All shows will be performed at Theatre 102, located at 102 Anzac Avenue, Redcliffe.

The show is recommended for mature audiences aged 15 and over as it features coarse language.

To reserve your seat, click here.