By Max Burrows
IT’S almost time for the actors of Theatre 44’s production of Away by Michael Gow to take to the stage.
Away is an Australian play set in 1968 that tells the story of three families, whose only connection is the school that their children attend, going on vacation on the coast, where they all accidentally meet.
The cast features a large number of adult actors and children from the local Moxie youth theatre group, and is underpinned by a soundtrack of classic pop songs from the ‘60s.
Director Armando Licul said that he enjoyed directing Away.
“It’s an interesting play because it’s not obvious,” he said.
“It weaves in and out of people’s subconsciousness in the characters, and so none of it is obvious”.
Actress Jo Severino said that she’s enjoyed exploring her character.
“Being part of Theatre 44’s production of Away has given me the opportunity to explore an interesting and challenging character affected by grief,” she said. “Being in Away has allowed me to work with a diverse cast of adults and children from our community.
“By including the kids from Moxie [Broken Hill’s youth theatre group] we are hoping to continue to develop their love of theatre, as they will be the future of Theatre 44.
“I am excited to see everyone come out and support community theatre.”
As the curtain rises on this new production, it’s worth reflecting on the long-standing history of the Broken Hill Repertory Society.
The Broken Hill Repertory Society, who have been behind every Theatre 44 production, was formed in November of 1944, not long after the close of the Silver City Players’ Club.
The group rehearsed in various locations in Broken Hill including the Police Boys Club theatrette, Johnson’s Theatre, and The Wendt Chambers before The Playhouse (Theatre 44) was built with the help of local mining companies in 1963.
Victor, or Vic, Bindley, a talented creative with a passion for live theatre, was instrumental in establishing the Repertory Society.
He directed many plays, including Murder at the Ministry, The Cuckoo in the Nest, and Amphitryon 38, before retiring from The Repertory Society at their AGM on the 2nd of December, 1948, marking the end of the ‘Bindley’ Era.
In the past 81 years, The Repertory Society has produced more than 250 plays, held 30+ concerts, and hosted countless travelling acts.
You can see Away on Friday the 4th and Saturday the 5th of April from 7.30pm, with a 2.30pm matinee show on Sunday the 6th.
Tickets are available on Humanitix or sold at the door, with $25 dollar tickets for adults, and $15 dollar tickets for concessions.
