Author(s): George Webby

New Zealand Drama | Biography

Renowned drama educator and director George Webby's wryly-titled memoir begins in Wanganui with a young man intent on a theatrical career in a country where such a dream could earn more than a sideways look. George's journey is an affecting account of New Zealand life from the 1930s to the present as he entertainingly traverses his teacher training, amateur theatrical forays, then life at Wellington Teachers College. His time in the U.S. as a Fulbright scholar were followed by 16 years heading Toi Whakaari: NZ Drama School, the country's first training facility for professional actors and directors. He continues to mentor many stars of theatre and film. George takes readers on a memorable and sometimes hilarious outing, peppered with delicious revelations about our leading theatre personalities. Readers will relish the tour of an industry with its penchant for competitiveness and gossip. These reflections on a lifetime of achievement are an insightful, pithy and irreverent view of a New Zealand landscape that has developed as dramatically as any of the major theatre pieces George has directed.