Local playwright, Chris Dockrill, prepares to launch his new show at Kempsey

Titled, "More", its central character is TJ Carruthers.

"TJ is a particularly unlikeable character and as such he lends an engaging dynamism to the play," Chris said.

In creating TJ, Chris was reminded of so many other villainous characters in theatre.

"Shakespeare's plays abound with villainous central characters, consider Macbeth - murderer extraordinaire, or master manipulator Lago, or the sinister hunchback villain Richard III," he said.

The show delves into the life of TJ Carruthers, an individual with endless desires.

"TJ Carruthers is a man who has everything that would easily satisfy most people: money, mansions, yachts, cars, companies and power. However, TJ is driven by an irresistible desire to gain more. More of everything.

"He has little or no scruples in business and in his personal life. He is cruel, insensitive and intolerant. The people in his world rarely question him. They know that to do so is futile and could be disastrous. TJ is a particularly unlikeable individual."

It follows after the success of Flame Trees which Chris wrote, produced, and directed last year prior to the COVID shut down.

"Flame Trees ran for nine shows, with seven of the nine selling out. We raised over $10,000 profit which we donated to the Bandbox, we hope More will be equally successful," he explained.

Chris does not charge royalties or for his time as director and said it's because he's "happy to contribute to the cultural life of our valley".

Chris also continues to enjoy success with The Island of Doctor Moron® which has now been selected by 20 international film festivals across 11 countries, scooping numerous awards along the way.

More is planned to premiere at The Bandbox Theatre in May next year.

"We hold our first reading this Sunday," Chris said.

"I have been extravagant in my casting in that the play requires a cast of 16 character, there is a great deal of interaction between the characters and much movement of characters on and off stage.

"We are looking for potential actors to fill the parts so if anyone out there is interested, please contact us at 0427 660 401.

"And once again Coastline Credit Union has generously come to fore to sponsor the production for which we are most grateful."

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