BREAK A LEG!

TOOWOOMBA LOCALS HIT THE STAGE

This August, 21 Toowoomba locals will be performing at the Empire Theatre as part of the chorus for Gilbert & Sullivan’s Ruddigore, or the Witch’s Curse!

As part of Opera Queensland’s 2018 community initiative, Project G&S, auditions were held all over regional Queensland, with more than 8,000 km covered by the Opera Queensland team.

In the end, 10 local men and 11 local women were selected to take part in the Toowoomba performance at Empire Theatre.

“This year’s choruses are made up of individuals from vast backgrounds; from a marine animal trainer at Sea World, to speech pathologists, motorbike-riding psychologists, teachers and environmental activists”, said Opera Queensland’s Head of Learning, Regional and Community, Mark Taylor.

Over an eight week period, the lucky 21 took part in a free training program and polished their skills in preparation for the big night.

They will be performing alongside popular Australian theatre and opera stars, including Bryan Probets, Christine Johnston, and Natalie Christie Peluso.

In Ruddigore, or the Witch’s Curse!, follow the hilariously entertaining tale of Robin Oakapple, a shy farmer in a seaside village wishing to marry the enchanting Rose Maybud.

This gothic horror story takes a dark turn when Robin’s terrible secret is revealed: he is cursed!

If he doesn’t commit a dastardly crime every day, he will suffer a torturous death.

Having escaped his fate thus far by living in disguise, he has lived a law-abiding and virtuous life. Now his identity has been revealed, he is bound to obey his family’s curse.

In a village littered with bridesmaids, where good and evil goes hand-in-hand and galleries come alive, entertainment will not be in short supply.

Bring the family and stay for the final curtain call, in celebration of local talent and great theatre.