A Man With Five Children

by Nick Enright

A gripping multimedia drama spanning twenty-eight years, chronicling the secrets and lives of five diverse Australians during the final quarter of the 20th century.

Genres: Plays

96 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2003

Reviews

[MK · Rating 4 out of 5]

If by read I really mean saw the original production in Sydney, since it's really hard to get Australian play texts in North America. Examining the premise behind the 7-Up documentary series, it's a look at how lines get blurred, how observation influences circumstances, and wrestles with the pitfalls of taking the private public. The show relied on a large video element that will get lost on the page but Enright's dialogue shines and a production last year showed this show still has a lot to say in the era of YouTube and reality shows.

Nick Enright unexpectedly died right around when this was published. An artist just hitting his stride, it was a huge loss for theatre.

[Sam Schroder · Rating 1 out of 5]

Ugh. This was dull. I can't actually imagine it on stage. And I have no clue why it's on the HSC list. I'm quite concerned for the teachers who have committed to teaching it, especially my new colleague, Sam, who has inherited it from his predecessor and may look to me for support and advice. I'll just have to send him to Lisa, the predecessor, for that advice!