THE Gippsland Youth Drama Workshop’s new production hits the stage this weekend, promising to be a memorable event for the whole family.
Bush Tale Bunyip is an Aussie twist on fairy tales; set in the bush with fairies, brownies, elves, witches and an unpopular bunyip, who all set tip the happily-ever-after story on its head.
“Like most fairytales, this story has a battle of good and evil, it has a fairy prince and princess and a character that sort of doesn’t fit in Barry the Bunyip,” Assistant Director Krissi Creighton says.
“It’s all about accepting differences, embracing them, and realizing that being unique is a good thing which can strengthen a community.
“The characters face many challenges on the way to accepting and embracing someone who is different from the norm.
“It’s a great lesson but it’s also great fun and supplies a lot of comedy.”
The comical tale is the latest original show produced by GYDW, which this year is celebrating its 30th anniversary.
According to Ms Creighton, the group has produced over 100 original shows involving over 2000 young actors and seen by “well over 22,000” locals since its inception
Young performers travel from across the region to be involved in the Youth Drama Workshop’s unique program.
“Every new group comes up with their own ideas, so each play we produce is original,” Ms Creighton said.
This is also the case for Bush Tale Bunyip.
Photo: Contributed
Ms Creighton said the young stars have really enjoyed creating their own vision, story and characters.
“These kids are amazing. They work so hard to develop fun characters and an interesting story,” she said.
“It’s not like a normal kids’ show where everything is set.
“These young stars have more scope to develop something original and important to them, so it’s their story … and it’s all about making the world a better place for everyone.”
Participants are involved for various reasons, from wanting to be an actor to simply building their confidence, enjoying a creative activity, meeting new friends and learning about the performing arts.
The excitement of performing in front of a large live audience is an experience they remember forever.
“The kids work hard to produce a polished show, enthusiastic performances and something different that they have a chance to put their own creative thumbprints on,” Ms Creighton said.
Bush Tale Bunyip is showing for one night only, this Saturday, June 24 from 7.30pm at the Little Theatre, Gippsland Performing Arts Centre, Traralgon.
Tickets are available from latrobe.vic.gov.au/gpac/events or by calling the box office on 5176 3333.
For further information about the Workshop, call the director on 0409 878 688.
