MATES launches Youth Theatre
Youth participants have a new program in which to play with the inaugural MATES Youth Theatre Mentoring program starting in 2022. The program, created by Mates Theatre Genesis Inc. (MATES), provides a youth arts group for the Redlands and will allow participants to audition, rehearse and perform a production whilst being guided by older mentors. In order to gain an understanding of the roles involved in a production, each Youth Participant will experience an on-stage acting role and a backstage crew/production role.
This initiative is funded with assistance from the outgoing Mt Cotton Drama Group which donated funds to MATES in 2016 with the express caveat it is used to foster youth in theatre.
“Let’s face it, our members aren’t getting any younger, and we hope to develop well-rounded theatre skills in our youth will help keep community theatre alive for decades to come. There is such a wealth of experience in MATES and other Community Theatres in Redlands and the Brisbane area.” MATES’ president Kath Kunde says.
“This experience should be available to anyone, especially young people, to help them in their theatre journey now and for years to come.”
The first production under the program will be “The Confounded Nugget” a pantomime written by Redland locals Merle Bowen and Trisha Cation, originally for performance by the Macleay Entertainment Group at the Macleay Island Progress Hall. The author’s notes to the director clearly state that “this is a pantomime and therefore acting should be ‘over the top’. Every emotion, action and reaction is extreme….. Audience participation is essential.” The script promises plenty of fun and entertainment for actors, crew and audience alike.
Auditions will be held on May 23, with performances scheduled for August 4-14. Auditions, rehearsals and shows will be at the Donald Simpson Community Centre, Cleveland. All participants will require evidence of double vaccination against COVID -19 or a medical exemption certificate. Participants 18 years old, or older will need to hold or be prepared to obtain a Working with Children Card (Blue Card).
More information or to participate visit MATES Theatre Genesis website.
Media release supplied.
