By Peter Kemp
CLOC Musical theatre
Come From Away
Based on actual events that happened on 9/11 the little town of Gander Newfoundland which had the ;largest airport in the world.
As 9/11 eventuated this airport was the destination of 38 airplanes and 7000 passenger.
Gander itself had a population of only of 10,000 so one can imagine the difficulty in feeding, clothing and accommodating these passenger who did not know why they were diverted to Gander.
CLOC Music took this story and did a wonderful portrayal of the townspeople, the passengers, crew, local police, and a new TV reporter.
A small orchestra split on both sides of the stage. A simple set comprising chairs and tables.
With the chairs being moved around to act as aeroplanes, busses and local homes.
There were trees with lights attached and a log backdrop.
A cast of 12 all enacting multiple roles such as the police, the residents, TV reporter, the passengers and the helpers.
An amazing spectacle with the 12 playing many parts which is not easy to change from one character to another let alone many characters.
A smooth flowing production with amazing voices.
Each actor caught the chrematistics of the person they were portraying giving excellent performances.
Your reviewer was privileged to see the original professional version, and this easily equalled the original. In fact, media night the critics rose to a standing ovation and I was told that opening night the whole audience rose as one to a standing ovation.
In all the years I have been a critic this is the first time I have seen a amateur company receive a standing ovation.
Well done CLOC.
The Gem
Open Stage Night
Welcome one and all to Gemco’s ongoing Open Stage Night.
Hosted by Carol and Dalys, our popular open stage has been running for many decades.
Held in the cosy hall, you are welcome to perform anything you like or just come for the lovely entertainment.
Enjoy music, poetry, singing, monologues, or anything you wish to show!
Running the first Saturday of every month from 8pm.
If you’d like to perform just turn up and register your interest when you arrive with Carol McCoy.
Venue: The Gem Community Arts Centre, 19 Kilvington Cr. Emerald
REMEMBER:
Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre. Little Women. Season: 14 – 30 November. Bookings: 9735 1777.
Eltham Little Theatre. The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe. Season: 15 – 30 November. Bookings: 0411 713 095.
The 1812 Theatre. Noises Off. Season: 14 November – 7 December. Bookings 9758 3964.
