The Daily Telegraph
Chris Hook
September 26, 2011

THEY don't believe in themes down at the Sydney Theatre Company, but themes believe in them - as became very apparent when the 2012 season was unveiled.

"We don't like to work thematically, because that sounds dogmatic," co-artistic director Andrew Upton says.But notions of desire, loss and language loom large next year, as the program shifts from its overseas influences and visitors into a very antipodean milieu with four new Australian works, two local adaptations and a heap of local stars.

The year starts with Pygmalion from January 31, with Jessica Marais, and the tough Scottish romantic comedy Midsummer from February 1. From March 31-June 9 Hugo Weaving struts the boards as the manipulative Vicomte de Valmont opposite Pamela Rabe in Les Liaisons Dangereuses, with a cast that also includes Justine Clarke.

"They're actors with a great style and status, and they understand the stakes," co-artistic director Cate Blanchett explains. "(Director) Sam Strong wanted to it to be up close and personal in the Wharf."Jack Thompson returns to the stage opposite Sandy Gore in the dialogue-heavy Dylan Thomas play Under Milk Wood from May 22, directed by Upton.

New plays from Tim Winton and Jonathan Biggins round out the year, while an all-male production of The Pirates Of Penzance heralds the summer.

And that's just a taste. Check out the website for more details.