By PETER DOUGLAS
BELGRAVE actor Charlie Cousins is receiving a fantastic response to his most recent stage show, ‘Young and Jackson’.
After featuring on the ABC recently in hit television show, ‘The Doctor Blake Mystery’, Cousins has returned to his roots on the stage.
He describes this recent play as one of his most enjoyable, which is a World War II period piece that is set in iconic Melbourne pub, Young and Jackson.
The story covers the lives of three young navy boys, who fight for the interests of an intriguing woman.
Set in the final days of the war, Cousins described the stage play as one of contrast.
“The three young sailors are out to run amok, have a good time and chase some skirt,” he said.
“But they come across a navy veteran, who teaches them about the darker side of war.
“The veteran shows signs of post-traumatic stress disorder, in a period where no-one really knew how to manage such things.”
The local actor said he was attracted to the role through the fine writing.
“It really takes you back in time,” he said.
“When some writers tackle a period piece, their language doesn’t accurately reflect the time.
“But (writer) Don Reid uses some wonderful dialogue, along with dynamics of comedy and drama.”
Cousins said he had a busy acting schedule planned for this year, while presently enjoying the balance between a city work-life and country lifestyle.
“I moved to the Belgrave area in 2004, and it’s a beautiful part of the world,” he said.
“There’s nowhere else quite like it.
“There’s not many places where you can live like this, but not be three hours travel from the city.”
Shows are held at 45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne.
The show runs until Sunday 22 March.
For bookings, visit www.fortyfivedownstairs.com or 9662 9966.
