Such Is Life! - a musical about the life of Ned Kelly

Saturday, October 4th, 2008, commencing 8.00 pm Sunday, October 5th 2008 commencing 2.00 pm. Living Faith Church, 37 Grimshaw St, Greensborough (Melway Ref. 20 K2). Sunday, October 12 2008 commencing at 2.00 pm. Western Heights Uniting Church, Geelong A rare chance has arisen to see the premier metropolitan concert performance of a dramatic new Australian musical. Such Is Life! is presented by Diamond Valley Singers and their enthusiastic cast in theatrical concert form, led with aplomb by Musical Director Graham Ford and experienced director Lynne Counsel. Alan Flint’s story and lyrics in Such Is Life! tell the tale of one of Australia’s most famous bushrangers and most loved sons, Ned Kelly, from many perspectives. The 27 songs set to music by John Bumford cover the stories of Ned, his love Kate Lloyd, his family, the poor farming selectors of North East Victoria, colonial society, the police and of the Kelly Gang itself. The musical sharply defines the sacrifices all faced in their ultimate conflict. Alan says “The story told in the lyrics is one of incredible loyalty, romance and bravery, and humour in the face of hardship. The musical is based on the actual history of early settlement in Victoria, especially the class struggle between the poor farming selectors and the wealthy squatters that led Ned and his friends to become revolutionaries and bushrangers. According to Lynne Counsel, “The use of narrators in this concert version helps people learn more of the incredible drama that took place virtually in our own backyard. You could call it a musical docu-drama. It is very exciting and emotionally moving.” Graham Ford added “We have been fortunate to have the talents of John Bumford in composing the show’s music. With elements of some traditional tunes, these were specifically composed to match the words. John’s music ranges from the uproarious slapstick to soaring romantic tunes, wistful laments, bush ballads and dramatic four part harmonies, and perfectly suits the lyrics.” DVS donates the majority of its profits to charity and has donated over $80,000.00 to charity since its formation. Tickets available at the door. A third performance will be held in Geelong on October 12. Please contact Jennie or DVS for details.