Play Readings at Old Mill Theatre

Play Readings at the Old Mill Theatre

The theatre’s programme of play readings for 2010 continues to be well supported and is receiving some very positive feedback; however, in order to introduce variety and to involve everyone who attends the play readings, some innovations have been introduced. 
A ‘rehearsed’ play reading was held in July with assistance from Evan Taplin, a returned former member. Evan contributed a number of ten minute short plays which participants chose to direct or act.  Following an evening of rehearsals, each group performed their play, the following week, with the minimum of props and improvised furniture. Feedback and comments were provided by Evan who encouraged and coached participants and everyone had lots of fun. 
This event allowed everyone to participate in the readings and allowed people who have never directed or had the chance to tread the boards to ‘have a go’.  The plan is that these rehearsed play readings will be interspersed with the programme of full play readings, in the future.
Another innovation is the introduction of acting and theatre craft classes.  Evan, in addition to helping with the play readings, has offered to conduct theatrecraft and acting classes early next year at the theatre.  Evan has vast experience in local theatre and has directed at the Old Mill Theatre in the past: see the list of plays in the Constance Ord room. This is a wonderful opportunity for members to expand their skills and to avail themselves of the experience and talents of Evan who has worked with folk such as David Addenbrooke, Aarne Neeme, Ray Omodei and the late Frank Baden-Powell.  He has taught theatre arts courses at ECU and Curtin University and has very generously offered his skills and experience for the benefit of the Old Mill Theatre members and supporters.
Sally and Siobhán welcome enquiries regarding the play readings and the proposed classes which we hope will commence in early 2011. Play readings are held at the theatre (Constance Ord room) and are scheduled for 7:30pm on the following dates. Participants are welcome to arrive from 7.00pm for nibbles (bring along  a bottle of something if you wish, tea & coffee provided)
o       Wednesday 15 September
o       Wednesday 13 October
o       Wednesday 10 November (may need to be changed due to increased rehearsals for Fiddler on the Roof!)

Acting classes will be scheduled once we have received an indication of the level of interest.
There is no charge for the play readings, but there will probably be a small charge for the classes to cover essential theatre costs. 

ENQUIRIES: Sally Barendse on 9474 3631 | sjbarendse@gmail.com         
 Siobhán O’Gara on  M: 0409 374 731 | E: siobhanog@westnet.com.au