P.O. BOX 177, FRANKSTON VICTORIA 3199 AUSTRALIA
***** COMMUNITY THEATRE - Entertainment on your Doorstep ****** Theatre of all kinds is now available to the residents of the Mornington Peninsula. Not only are there a wide variety of professional performers coming to this region, but many local theatre groups are regularly producing musicals, plays, melodramas, and pantomimes. Residents and visitors to the area can enjoy a diversity of entertainment without enduring the trek to the city. The local theatre groups are often overlooked as a source of entertainment. It is not uncommon to hear the remark: " I never knew this theatre group existed!"Several groups have been in existence for up to 50 years. Groups based in Frankston, Mornington, Rosebud, and elswhere on the Peninsula have regular annual seasons at local theatres such as the George Jenkins at Monash, the Frankston Cultural Centre, community halls and occasionally perform at unusual venues such as "Mulberry Hill" in Baxter, "The Briars" in Mt.Martha and the gardens of McClelland Gallery in Langwarrin. The groups can always be located by reading local newspapers or by enquiring at local Council offices. Patrons of local productions may often feel they are seeing familiar faces on stage. They are probably quite right. Many performers appearing with the non-professional groups may be seen appearing in advertisements and on locally produced television shows such as "Blue Heelers". Life members of Frankston Theatre Group, David and Jayne Copeland, both strongly associated with many facets of community theatre, are also kept very busy by their agents. Jayne was very excited to be involved recently with the making of the movie "Hotel Sorrento" here on the Peninsula. The movie was based on the Hannie Rayson play of the name performed by "Questcott Players" in Frankston last year. Very occasionally someone rises to stardom - in his early years "Max Gillies" appeared on stage with Frankston Theatre Group!. Several young people who have had the opportunity to work with local groups have subsequently undergone formal training in the performing arts. Their knowledge and experience has assisted them in gaining paid employment. Not only does non-professional theatre provide a stepping stone to possible employment, but also assists in personal development and self- confidence. It is therefore important for the community to continue supporting and encouraging local theatre which provides opportunities for people of all ages. (Carol McCall, President, Frankston Theatre Group. )
Page maintained by Keith Gledhill and the committee of Frankston Theatre Group.
e-mail address : kgledhill@bhtafe.edu.au