4 minute read
Author’s novel illuminates theatre realities
On Thursday, September 14, join the first in conversation for 2023 at beloved institution Farrells Bookshop in Mornington, when Melbourne author Allee Richards discusses her second novel, A Light in the Dark, with Farrells owner Kate Horton.
“The events side of things was something I resurrected about seven years ago when I came back into the family business,” Kate says. “The biggest events program we'd run was in 2019; we ran something like 25 events across the year, which was full-on. And then of course it all went kaput in 2020.
“We did run a handful of events in 2021 and 2022 with the likes of Monica Dux, Jock Serong and Sally Hepworth, but then we decided to rest things and ultimately it was the best decision. I’ve really found my creativity again and my ideas started to come back.”
Allee’s connection to the Peninsula made her an ideal choice for the event, as she draws inspiration from her own experiences growing up between Seaford and Mount Eliza. Her novel introduces readers to Iris, a young and ambitious protagonist, with the story unfolding from her perspective. It’s a tale of self-discovery and resilience that navigates the world of theatre.
"I really loved student theatre and community theatre,” Allee says. “It was huge on the Peninsula when I was growing up, with companies like Panorama Theatre and PLOS. The setting is purposefully vague. I think in my head it’s Mount Eliza. The first half of the story is set in fictional high schools, which anyone with knowledge of the area might think are Peninsula Grammar and Toorak College, but I didn't base the book on those schools."
The story's timeline, stretching from 2009 to 2019, offers readers a glimpse into a transformative era for the characters. Allee's meticulous research captures the essence of the times, even encapsulating the shifts in teenage life brought on by technological advances. "The teenage aspect of the book is actually a little bit later than when I was in high school, so I did have to do some research, which made me feel very old, which I’m not!” she laughs.
The book’s title is emblematic of its themes. "The title's figurative meaning is about trying to find the good in your life. But it also has a very literal meaning as well because the character becomes a spotlight operator in the theatre, so she is literally shining the light in the dark as a job."
The novel doesn’t shy away from offering a stark portrayal of the theatre industry's darker aspects, and Allee's words paint a vivid picture. "There are huge substance abuse issues in the industry, and depression and suicide are more common for people. You become cut off from anyone who works a nine-to-five job when you're working in that industry, and people aren't paid particularly well. Everyone's on casual contracts. It's really hard to get sort of any permanent work. I'm so passionate about advocating for making the industry more sustainable for people."
Readers will also gain insights into Allee’s journey from the stage to the page and her writing process over COVID lockdowns after her work in theatre disappeared overnight. Her love for the performing arts is obvious: "I still work in theatre as a lighting technician in the city. It's such a magical place to me.”
Don't miss this opportunity to enjoy a literary evening that explores the complexity of life, love and the performing arts on Thursday, September 14, at 6.15pm for a 6.30pm start. Bookings: www.farrells.com.au/allee-richards-thursday-14-sept/
