Torquay Theatre Troupe to deliver powerful play

THE team at Torquay Theatre Troupe (TTT) will showcase their latest production “Parramatta Girls” across various dates next month.

Based on true events and written by celebrated Australian playwright Alana Valentine, Parramatta Girls was derived using the testimonies of several women who were incarcerated at The Girls Training School, Paramatta during the 1960s.

“There are some shameful episodes in Australia’s past that have been hidden and ignored for decades,” TTT’s Gay Bell said.

“Gradually, many of these stories have come to light in recent years and are being aired through media investigations, royal commissions and reports from historians and individuals involved.

“The plight of the approximately 30,000 young girls who were incarcerated in what is generally known as Parramatta Girls Home is one of these stories.”

Using interviews, conversations and historical documents, Valentine’s 2007 play juxtaposes the abuses, riots and harsh conditions at the facility with the humour and resilience of the inmates. Set in 2003, the play sees eight women reunite 40 years post-release.

“The play is based around a reunion of some of the women who were sent to the institution in the 1960s for various reasons, including delinquency, homelessness, criminal offences, waywardness and uncontrollable behaviour,” Ms Bell said.

“Now, 40 years later, they return to remember, renew acquaintances, and maybe lay to rest some past ghosts.”

Torquay Theatre Troupe’s interpretation of Parramatta Girls – directed by Zina Carman – will see eight local woman (including four new TTT additions) bring the play to life through flashbacks, monologues, song and dialogue.

Parramatta Girls opens on November 4 at 8pm, with performances to follow on November 7, 8, 9, 14, 15 and 16. A matinee will be held on November 10 at 2pm. Tickets available from trybooking.com/BFJWZ (general $23, concession $20). To enquire, phone 5261 6111.

**Torquay Theatre Troupe advises the play is suitable for adults only.