Vietnam War inspires play
A true story collage from ordinary women who had their lives changed forever during the Vietnam War will be performed in Drouin next week.
“Minefields and Miniskirts”, presented by Off the Leash Theatre, is a thought-provoking play capturing and portraying the thoughts, stories and horrors Australian men and women experienced during this chapter of Australian history.
Adapted from Siobhan McHugh’s book, the play records the voices of women who were actually there, revealing how they survived a war and discovered what they believe in.
Nearly a thousand Australian women had a part in the Vietnam War as entertainers, typists, consular staff and army nurses. Women at home had to endure absent husbands and, even when they did return, the men weren’t those they once knew and loved.
The one thing these women have in common is that their lives were changed forever by Vietnam. For many, it was the most vital and alive they have ever felt. For others, it was a turning point that shaped their future lives. It was also an era where music also resonated with society and became the soundtrack of a generation.
The cast features seasoned and award-winning actors, including Tracie McDonald as wife of veteran vet Margaret, Liz Lubberink as volunteer Eve who is serving her Christian faith, Annette O’Shea as strong nurse Kathy, Kate Boyer as disenchanted reporter Ruth, Amy Moss as entertainer Sandy and Todd Miller as the soldier who comes home very different.
Experienced actress Sharryn Marshall steps up to the role of director and is proud to bring this Australian play to the local stage.
Leane Gooding, Amy Barbeler and Gracie Nelson are vital in their production team roles.
Off the Leash Theatre will present a six-show season of “Minefields and Miniskirts” at the Old Drouin Butter Factory. Shows will be on Wednesday, April 25 at 5pm, Thursday, April 26 at 7.30pm, Friday, April 27 at 7.30pm, Saturday, April 28 at 3pm and 7.30pm, and Sunday, April 29 at 5pm.
Tickets are $30 for adults and $25 for concession, groups and children.
For bookings, visit trybooking .com/ULCG.