An Audience with Smoky and Herb

Glenn T, the playwright, director and producer of one man show An Audience with Smoky and Herb, starring Ian Stenlake, which will be staged at the Cremorne Theatre, QPAC in October, speaks to Roger McKenzie.

Smoky Dawson has long been a Country Music Legend in Australia and his story is being brought to life at the Cremorne Theatre at Brisbane’s premiere theatrical venue QPAC – the Queensland Performing Arts Centre in October. Starring as the superstar is one of Australia’s best-known stage and screen actors Ian Stenlake.

Playwright, Director and Producer Glenn T was a long time friend of Herb (Smoky) and his wife Dot and this is his homage to the popular entertainer. Glenn emphasises that this is not a tribute show! But a “warts and all” account of the trials and tribulations Herb endured during his life as told through the eyes of the great man himself. “Ian is the perfect actor to portray Smoky as he brings many of Smoky’s attributes to life while, at the same time, revealing the hardships which beset Herb and his wife of over 70 years, Dot”.

Smoky’s trusty horse, Flash played a major role in creating Smoky’s legacy.

The show, An Audience with Smoky and Herb is an invitation into the living room of the Dawson home in suburban Sydney and is told by Ian in the dual roles of quietly unassuming Herb and his vibrant alter-ego Smoky. The story consists of song, verse and recollection. This ‘one-man-show’ opens 20^thOctober.

Images: Glenn T and Ian Stenlake & Smokey Dawson.