Geoffrey Atherden wrote the first episodes of Australian sitcom 'Mother And Son' back in 1984.
'Mother And Son' sharply explored the dysfunctional family relationship of an ageing parent with increasing memory loss, and her faithful but long-suffering son helping to take care of her.
The original sitcom starred Ruth Cracknell as Maggie and Garry McDonald as Arthur.
Maggie and Arthur's story was taken from screen to stage by its creator Geoffrey Atherden in 2014 – reinvigorating an Australian icon for new audiences and long-time fans alike.
Jally Entertainment's touring production of 'Mother And Son' stars Julie McGregor as Maggie and Christopher Truswell as Arthur. We chat with the two actors to learn more about this trip down 'loss-of-memory lane', before it hits the stage at Queensland's Redland Performing Arts Centre.
Tell us a bit about this stage show of ‘Mother And Son’.
Julie: 'Mother And Son' is a comedy about the relationship between an ageing mother (Maggie) and her two sons Arthur and Robbie. It explores various issues (which most people will be familiar with) that involve the vulnerability of the elderly, ageism, and family dynamics. At the heart of the play, however, is Arthur’s love and compassion for his mother as she becomes more confused – with some hilarious results.
Christopher: It’s a funny, heartfelt look at life and ageing.
Why do you think these characters are still so relatable/relevant in a contemporary setting?
Julie: The issues raised in the play are vividly contemporary – especially in light of the growing information about elder abuse (particularly financial) which, I discovered in my role as ambassador for the Elder Abuse Collaborative, mainly occurs within families.
Christopher: Well, we live in a society and culture that generally treat the welfare of the elderly as a problem to be taken care of professionally, say in a retirement facility or nursing home. Unlike countries like China or Italy for example, where the elderly live out their final years being taken care of in a home environment where the core family group give support and care. The relevance here is that in Australia there are so many issues and complications that stem from a weaker family bond structure. I think that is reflected in our show.
Julie, what’s your favourite quality of Maggie?
Maggie is a trooper, but she is somewhat fearful of getting older and losing her grasp on reality. However, she soldiers on against all odds despite fears of abandonment, and with her previous experience as a nurse, she hopes to be relevant by taking on community work. Unfortunately, she is also somewhat crafty and manipulative and knows how to get what she wants. Fear is her driving force – but this is offset by her love for her sons.
And Christopher, your favourite quality of Arthur?
He's loyal and patient.
Julie, how are you hoping audiences respond to the show?
'Mother And Son' was a much-loved television show which has been updated for today’s audience. However, the themes are timeless, and while dementia and mental illness may seem an unlikely basis for comedy, the frustrations and miscommunications that abound will resonate with today’s audiences. It is a classic, bittersweet story of familial love.
Christopher, how have you prepared for this role?
Well, I've learnt my lines, that's most important, and written a back story for my character. Thought a lot about my own relationship with my mother who lives alone, those sorts of things. It will always be a work in progress till the last show.
Who is this show for, and what are you most looking forward to about presenting this performance?
Julie: 'Mother And Son' is beautifully written by Geoffrey Atherden, and will appeal to people of all ages, and I am really looking forward to playing Maggie with my old pal Christopher as Arthur. I’m also looking forward to rehearsals with Director Aarne Neeme whom I’ve had the pleasure of working with previously, and to be touring Australia with the wonderful Jally Entertainment group.
Christopher: For everyone, but especially a great show for younger audiences to give them a better understanding and respect for the elderly and the issues we all will face in our later lives. I'm looking forward to working for a wonderful company, such as Jally Entertainment, who are so inspiring – bringing theatre to the people while the pandemic is still such an issue.
'Mother And Son' plays Redland Performing Arts Centre (Queensland) 11 March.
