Samuel Adamson, an Adelaide-born playwright, ventured to London over three decades ago to pursue his aspirations in playwriting. Initially keeping his writing endeavors discreet, Adamson ultimately gained the courage to delve into the world of writing. Fast forward to the present, Adamson, now 54, returns to Adelaide for a significant milestone in his career – the debut of his play adaptation of Peter Carey’s renowned novel, Jack Maggs.
The narrative of Jack Maggs, a reimagining of Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations, resonated with Adamson, particularly as it explores themes of identity and the historical connection between England and Australia. The play is set to be performed by the State Theatre Company of South Australia in its world premiere at the Dunstan Playhouse, marking a poignant moment for Adamson, who hails from Victor Harbor.
Collaborating with Geordie Brookman, the former artistic director of State Theatre Company, Adamson embarked on the journey of bringing Jack Maggs to the stage in Adelaide. Despite initial plans to adapt a different Australian book, the serendipitous discovery of Jack Maggs led to a creative partnership that spanned continents, with Brookman directing from Berlin, Adamson overseeing from London, and Mitchell Butel stepping in as the new artistic director in Adelaide.
The challenges posed by the global pandemic in 2020 added a unique layer to the production process, with rehearsals, castings, and meetings conducted virtually over Zoom. This innovative approach culminated in a stellar cast led by local actor Mark Saturno in the titular role, supported by a talented ensemble that includes seasoned actors and emerging talents.
Reflecting on his artistic journey, Adamson traces his passion for playwriting back to his formative years as a student at Prince Alfred College in Adelaide. A pivotal moment during an assignment sparked his fascination with dramatic writing, setting him on a path towards exploring the complexities of human nature and storytelling through dialogue.
Since his early days submitting his first play to London’s Bush Theatre, Adamson has established a noteworthy career, collaborating with acclaimed artists and theaters. His diverse body of work includes adaptations, original plays, and even a musical with singer Tori Amos. Notable successes such as ‘Wife’ and ‘The Ballad of Hattie and James’ have solidified his reputation as a skilled playwright in London’s vibrant theater scene.
While Adamson contemplates the idea of potentially settling back in Adelaide to be closer to his family, the allure of London and his ongoing commitments in the UK remain a significant factor in his decision-making. Despite the geographical distance, Adamson finds solace and fulfillment in the theater, viewing it as the quintessential platform for his storytelling endeavors.
As the State Theatre Company of South Australia prepares to showcase Jack Maggs to audiences in Adelaide, Adamson’s homecoming marks a poignant chapter in his artistic journey, bridging the gap between his beginnings in Adelaide and his illustrious career in London. The convergence of talent, storytelling, and personal history in this production embodies a full-circle moment for Adamson, solidifying his legacy as a playwright with a profound connection to his roots.
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