Sumner offers numerous, sometimes surprising, insights into all aspects of theatre life: acting, directing and the production process, the question of standards, the role of government, and of course the changing terrains of Australian drama. Among those crossing centre-stage are Barry Humphries, Leo McKern, Zoe Caldwell, Tyrone Guthrie, Ray Lawler, Frank Thring, Googie Withers, Keith Michel, David Williamson and Patrick White. Directing the proceedings is the distinctive voice of John Sumner, a voice by turns exuberant, wistful, ironic, provocative, wry, instructive - and often funny.