THE DRAWER BOY (PLAY)

Written by Michael Healey

Directed by Zac Bridgman

A Mockingbird Theatre Company production

Belconnen Arts Centre to 30 August

 

Reviewed by Len Power 26 August 2025

 

The power of storytelling is at the heart of Michael Healey’s 1999 award-winning Canadian play.

About two ageing farmers and the young city actor who comes to stay with them while he does research for a new theatre work, this life-affirming play is surprising and ultimately deeply touching. Ignorant of all aspects of farmwork, the young man struggles to be part of the farmers’ lives. Overhearing a story told by one of the middle-aged farmers, Morgan, to calm the other brain-damaged man, Angus, the young actor, Miles, uses the story in his research material, unwittingly impacting on the fragility of the farmers’ existence together.

All three actors in this production give finely nuanced performances. As the young actor from the city, Callum Doherty impresses with his portrayal of a young man out of his depth but trying hard to fit in. His flamboyance as an actor as well as his awkwardness and eagerness to please are carefully balanced in his thoughtful and emotional performance.

Callum Doherty (Miles)

As the farmer, Morgan, Richard Manning gives a strong, realistic performance as a man of few words who has struggled through years of life on the land. His telling of the calming story at the centre of the play is one of the high points of this production. Manning’s finely tuned performance of it is outstanding.

Richard Manning (Morgan)

Chris Baldock gives a superb performance as the brain-damaged farmer, Angus. He achieves a child-like quality in the grown man that is both appealing and tragic. There is a depth to his performance, both verbally and non-verbally, that shows a true understanding of the conflicting emotions of this man.

Chris Baldock (Angus)

The detailed setting for the play, designed by Chris Baldock, gives a vivid impression of the wide-open space surrounding this farm while the interior décor reflects the practical lives of two bachelors sharing.

Zac Bridgman, the director, keeps the emotional heart of this play at the right level throughout. How the art of storytelling has the power to change lives is at the centre of this emotionally charged play. It’s a rewarding and memorable experience.

 

Photos by Zac Bridgman

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