Regional arts group leaves legacy
Six people made the most of an open day and public invitation to play Stawell Performing Arts Company’s grand piano last week.
Players performed pieces that included ragtime, show tunes, a sonata, some original creative pieces and even ‘Chopsticks’.
Young attendees explored workings inside the instrument as well as enjoying a play.
Organisers were pleased with the day and hope to make it an annual event.
The piano transferred to the ownership of Stawell Performing Arts Company in 2017 as a part of the wind-up of Stawell Regional Arts.
The open day provided an opportunity to complete the transfer of assets, with Stawell Regional Arts Committee president Wendy Melbourne and treasurer David Clarke presenting a final cheque for $4500.
Stawell Performing Arts Company president Dianne Stewart acknowledged the work of Stawell Regional Arts, expressing her gratitude for the gift of both the piano and money, which the company would use to support performing arts in Stawell.
Stawell Performing Arts Company has a suite of activities for district people. Weekly programs include community singing, ukulele, hip hop and flexible band groups as well programs for children aged five to nine – the SPACI Little Ones – and youth up to 17 years, the SPACI Young Ones.
The Young Ones are rehearsing stage show, Rock Around the ’50s, which they will perform on July 25.
Other major events later in the year include Stawell Performing Arts Fest, a weekend of three concerts in September covering modern pop and rock, and a day celebrating singing with conductor, singer and musician Polly Christie.
Stawell Performing Arts Company is a volunteer not-forprofit community organisation that generates skill-building and performance opportunities in performing arts, music, dance, drama and more. SCHUBERTS PEST SERVICES