THEATRE: How To Survive A Happy Childhood - Ad Astra Theatre

Title: How to Survive a Happy Childhood

Presented By: Ad Astra

Genre: Comedy / New Australian Theatre / Play Reading

Synopsis: David Williamson’s latest comedy takes a satirical look at intergenerational wealth, Australia’s housing crisis, and the struggles facing younger Australians. Jess, raised in a loving and supportive family, moves to Melbourne for university and is confronted by financial pressures, class divides, and family tensions. As old resentments emerge, How to Survive a Happy Childhood delivers a sharp and funny examination of modern Australian society.

Performance Dates: March 29th, 2026

Performance Times: 5PM

Performance Location and Address: Ad Astra Cosmos Theatre, 210 Petrie Terrace, QLD 4000, Australia

Ticket Link: Buy Tickets - How to Survive A Happy Childhood

Warnings: Contains colourful language and sexual references/“a bit of sex talk”.

Recommended Age: Recommended for mature teenage and adult audiences.

Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours including discussion and reading format elements.

Cast:

• Barb Lowing — Catriona

• Ron Kelly — Jack

• Christopher Sommers — Barry

• Stella Peterson — Jess

• Elise Greig — Gemma

• Davis Dingle — Carl

Creative Team:

• Playwright - David Williamson

• Director - Lewis Jones

Production Website: Ad Astra - How To Survive A Happy Childhood

Other information:

• Presented as an Astra Nova public table reading as part of the play’s development process ahead of its planned premiere.