In October 2008, Bryan directed ‘Beginner at Life’. This production, the first outside of the American continent, is written by Canandian playwright Alana Ruben Free.

An intensely intimate monologue about a woman’s discovery of her own body.

This play inspires and challenges audiences with an uncommon honesty about coming into womanhood. It embraces themes of sexuality, spirituality and anorexia with a poetic wit and a unique and surprising perspective.

“Alana Ruben Free’s script is intelligent and emotionally engaging… Donna Brooks gives a captivating performance… Genuinely valuable and inspiring.” – Gareth Beal, Arts Hub

“Innovative, universal.Donna Brooks gives a moving performance. The playwright’s honesty and courage is confronting.” – Lexi Landsman, Australian Jewish News

“The portrayal by Donna Brooks – remember her name – is utterly convincing…. Cutts has adeptly used minimalist stage props, lighting, and positioning in a clever way to remove any ambiguity between the various characters Donna portrays or the changes in time and location that fill the play.” – Sandra Burns White, OzBoomers online.

“An absorbing and thought-provoking theatrical experience. Bravely and truthfully written and performed.” – Maggie Mason, Radio RRR