Possible swan song for local theatre group

FOLLOWING the success of Mudbrick Motley Theatre’s production of The Old People are Revolting last year, group founder Maree Hingston is planning another production – but it could be the last.

Anyone interested in being part of the production, Dirty Deeds at the Diggings, is invited to a meeting on Saturday 5 April at the RSL, starting at 10.30am.

“This next production coming up in August this year could be the last time Mudbrick Motley Theatre will be performing,” Ms Hingston said.

“We are inviting anyone who is interested in theatre to attend the meeting, and we will also be auditioning separately on that day.

“I am planning an old time music hall show featuring a cute little melodrama and a show where the audience is invited to join in singing along with the performers, as they present songs from an earlier era.

“Dirty Deeds at the Diggings has only four characters – the father, his darling daughter, the villain, and the hero.

“It is about the quest for gold and will be set in the Heathcote diggings.

“The audience will be encouraged to boo the villain and cheer the hero. It is lots of fun for everyone.”

Last year’s production of The Old People Are Revolting entertained more than 150 locals on a Sunday afternoon, prompting Ms Hingston to present another production this year.

But it is not a simple task to do everything required to mount a successful show.

“We began as a play reading group at the community house in 2004, the year my husband and I moved to Heathcote, so this year will be our 21st birthday,” Ms Hingston said.

“Mudbrick Motley Theatre Group was formed in 2005 and has been entertaining locals since.

“This upcoming show could regretfully be our swan song as I am now finding it more difficult to summon the energy and time required to produce, direct and perform on stage. We need community support.

“Hopefully this meeting in April will give us the encouragement to continue this year.”