World Premiere Double Bill

Celebrating the voices of two local playwrights, this premiere season brings together two original new Australian works that explore the search for meaning, identity, and human connection.

In Le Chemin, written by Manly playwright Liz Eastland, four pilgrims embark on the ancient Camino trails of France and Spain. As they journey through breathtaking landscapes and historic villages, the physical trek becomes a deeply personal voyage of self-discovery. Through dreamlike encounters and unexpected revelations, each traveller is challenged to confront the past and uncover what truly matters.

Paired with this is The Life and Death of Harry Bennett, by local playwright Barbara Courtille. Harry Bennett, a celebrated investigative journalist, has spent his life exposing the secrets of others while avoiding his own. When circumstances force him to examine his past, he finds himself navigating a surreal landscape populated by soul guides, celestial beings, and the unfinished business of a lifetime. Blending humour, imagination, and spiritual reflection, the play asks what it really means to live a fulfilled life.

Presented by Manly Theatre Group, this special double bill showcases the creativity and talent emerging from the Northern Beaches theatre community. Be among the first audiences in the world to experience these compelling new works as they make their debut on the stage.

Two playwrights. Two world premieres. One unforgettable evening of original independent theatre.

Le Chemin by Liz Eastland

Directed by Kathleen Walker

Cast:

Lene: Ambre Malaussene
Mallory: Jody Crooks
Nick: Phil Whitehouse
Henri: Christophe Rowe
Oracle: Valentine Bru
Priest: Rory Coverdale
Kathryn: Daisy Hatton

The Life and Death of Harry Bennett by Barbara Courtille

Directed by Annie Gurton

Cast:

Harry: John Cross
Prof Plimpt: Phillipa Coleman
AI: Maureen Carr
Mother Module: Liz Jewell
Soul Advisor: Dharma Hadley
Krishna: Jessica Hermosilla
Durga: Sophia Burton

Performance Dates: Thursday 16 July to 25 July 2026

There will be complimentary nibbles folllowing the Opening Night on Thursday 16 July and you are invited to stay and mingle with the cast, crew and audience.

Venue: The Sky Theatre, 54 Raglan Street, Manly, NSW

Start Time: 7:30pm sharp, arrive from 7:00pm

Running Time: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, including a 20-minute interval.

The Life and Death of Harry Bennett – approximately 30 minutes
Le Chemin – approximately 70–75 minutes

Please note that running times are estimates and may vary slightly.

Interval:
A 20-minute interval will be held between performances, providing an opportunity to stretch your legs, catch up with friends, and enjoy refreshments.

Tickets: $30/$25 concession

Drinks & Refreshments: A selection of wine, beer, soft drinks, tea, coffee, and light refreshments will be available for purchase before the performance and during interval. Bar facilities open 30 minutes prior to curtain.

Content Warning: Recommended for audiences aged 15 years and over. This production contains mature themes, adult language, discussions of death, grief, mental health, spirituality, and emotional situations that may be distressing for younger audience members. Parental guidance is advised for patrons under 15 years of age. A small amount of theatrical haze is used during Le Chemin. If you have respiratory sensitivities, we recommend choosing seats in the middle or back of the theatre.

Getting there: We recommend coming by public transport or walking if possible. Parking is limited at the Kangaroo Street Youth & Community Centre or in nearby council paid parking, with a 5 minute walk up to the Sky Theatre.

Book early and be among the first audiences in the world to experience these two new works from local playwrights.

Contact the host of Manly Theatre Group Presents: Le Chemin & The Life and Death of Harry Bennett