Shattered Reflection is Brealey’s most confronting and controversial piece of theatre yet, tackling the serious problem of white-collar addiction to alcohol and drugs. Zachary Lurje, Arts Journalist wrote: “Writer, Darren Brealey, is to be commended for such well-drawn and developed characters. The strength of Shattered Reflection comes in these interesting characters that you can relate to – we all have a controlling or overly precious friend.” (Buzz Cuts)
COMMUNITY THEATRE
Brealey joined the Arena Theatre in Cromwell Road, South Yarra in 1975 (now the home to Polyglot Puppet Theatre) as part of the youth theatre contingent, until 1979. Here he learnt the art of acting, character development and other theatrical skills.
Between 1980 and 1984 Brealey was involved with various community theatre groups, including the Scouting movement’s Gang Show in 1980 (performing at the Palais Theatre in St. Kilda) and Springvale Youth Theatre.
Between 1984 and 2003, Brealey was a member of the Dandenong Light Opera Company (DLOC), which became Dandenong Theatre Company (DTC) in later years. Here, Brealey was to learn the business of Community Theatre from many and varied theatre veterans in set design, construction, props and sets, fire and safety (OH&S), theatre design, stage management, lighting, make up, the meaning behind community and of course, acting, dancing and singing.
During this period he also joined other community theatre groups, such as Cheltenham Light Opera Company (CLOC).
In 2004, he spent four years as the Secretary of Kyneton Theatre Company fostering creative relationships and creating sustainable relationships.
Brealey started his theatrical career at the age of six and have continued to create, consult, forge and make his career in theatre; acting, producing, writing, backstage, and technical and construction.
PROFESIONAL THEATRE, FILM & TELEVISION
Between 1983 and 1993 Brealey was involved with performing in television and film industry as an actor. He appeared in television soaps, such as Neighbours, Australia’s Most Wanted, Flying Doctors, The Comedy Company, Janus, The Four Minute Mile, and so on. Commercials such as BP, HBA, Susan, and so on.
He had support speaking roles in The Flying Doctors, The Battlers (TV movie filmed in South Australia) and a commercial for SATAC.
In 1999 and 2000 Brealey worked for Malcolm Cooke & Associates as his Assistant and Assistant Production Manager for the Australian national tour of The Hobbit.
The End.