Astra Nova Production
The Orchestra
Written by | Ophelia Novak
Mentor | Wayne McPhee
Directed by | Susan O’Toole - Cridland
Space | Pluto - Astra Nova Showcase
Season | January 8 - 10, 2026
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An unnamed professional orchestra prepares for an important summer concert event through regular rehearsals. This play is set in London. During this period, the personal lives and competing inter-relationships of the players are unveiled through these rehearsals in the hall and after work drinks at the local pub.
The first cellist and president of the association has had an accident, creating tension in the group while they recover and re-learn to play. The newly hired violinist, Michel, is battling drug addiction and struggling to fit in as they compete with the lead violinist Lillian. The second clarinet, Peta and percussionist, Ryan are in a new, secret romantic relationship, challenged by traditional upbringing and family differences around their sexuality.
As the next major concert looms, a dramatic incident occurs, traumatizing their beloved conductor. She unexpectedly announces her resignation, as she battles a now debilitating case of agoraphobia, paving the way for a showdown of epic proportions between orchestra and company management as they band together to try to convince the conductor to stay. This production is exploring themes of disability and accessibility, the meaning of family, group dynamic and diversity. This is a drama with moments of comedy.
Content warnings ; mild content warnings for language and adult themes
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Director Notes go here,
Director
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The Conductor | Whitney Duff
Ryan |
Peta |
Lillian |
Michel |
Dani |
Jamie - Board Chair |
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Playwright | Ophelia Novak
Director |
Mentor | Wayne McPhee
Show Poster
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