Raising the curtain for the first time

AWimmera theatre group will stage its first production at Ararat Town Hall in March, bringing to life an Australian rendition of a modern murder-mystery.

Ararat Youth Theatre will perform ‘Mystery at Mo’s’, based within a humble Australian eatery.

Ararat Youth Theatre founder and president Zafirah Davies-harrison said the group was excited to put ‘Mystery at Mo’s’ on stage for the first time.

“Mystery at Mo’s is set in an Australian diner, where waitresses Daisy, Cindy and Tina work. However, one morning Tina doesn’t clock on, and the two friends realise something isn’t right. They call in the help of local detectives, Sam and Jack, who solve a murder-mystery,” she said.

Ms Davies-harrison, 19, said the theatre group was created amidst the coronavirus pandemic, which gave young people a chance to develop new skills and confidence.

“In mid-2020 I decided to create a youth theatre group in Ararat and was immediately blown away by the support the community showed,” she said.

“Youth programs are very important, especially now. They not only build confidence but create a safe space where young people can escape the stress, worry and drama of school and day-today events.

“It’s also a great opportunity to make new friends, learn new skills and build another family while having a whole lot of fun.”

As production started during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ms Davies-harrison said seeing it come together would be rewarding given the effort put into the performance during lockdowns.

“Throughout lockdown, we committed several hours a week running lines through Zoom. I am looking forward to rehearsing in-person at the town hall,” she said.

“For many of our members, this will be their first-time being part of a production.

“Though we’re deep in rehearsals, we’re always on the lookout for new members and behind the scenes assistance.

“I’m hoping our productions will become an annual event for several years to come.

“I am beyond excited to finally bring this show to life.”

Ararat Rural City Council mayor Jo Armstrong said the group’s enthusiasm and grit was inspiring.

“I think it’s wonderful that Ararat now has a dedicated group for the youth in our community to develop their performance skills and perform at Ararat Town Hall,” she said.

“Ararat Youth Group had to wait a little longer to get back on stage and I truly hope our community will come out and support their first performance.”