A NEW BRAIN

Sydney-based production company Squabbalogic are bringing a slice of New York Broadway to Marrickville. A New Brain is an autobiographical musical co-written by Tony Award-winning composer William Finn (The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee) and James Lapine (Into The Woods). Based loosely on William Finn’s near-death experience following brain surgery, the play follows Gordon Schwinn, a talented young songwriter with a creative block who after collapsing in a restaurant learns he has suffered a life-threatening brain collapse called arteriovenous malformation. I spoke with performer Mark Simpson. “A lot the show is what is going on in his head and what’s in his imagination.”  Simpson, who was attracted to the rocky and soulful songs, says audiences are in for a truly inspiring experience. “The overall message is about making the most of the time you’ve got because you don’t know when it’s going to end,” he explains. “But the music is beautiful and there’s some great numbers in there. The entire cast is amazing and they’re really catchy songs. Audiences will have a great time.”

Oct 26-Nov 12, Sidetrack Theatre, 142 Addison Road, Marrickville, $25-38, 9550 3666, sidetrack.com.au