Switch on fresh theatre

Fresh contemporary theatre created by local theatre makers for a talented young cast will be performed in Yarragon this weekend.

The three presentations of “Switch” at the Yarragon Public Hall is the focal point of a nine-night theatre residential based at Allambee Camp for 36 young actors from across Victoria.

Run by Theatrecraft Youth Unlimited, the young actors aged 13 to 22 years came together in Melbourne on Saturday before travelling to Allambee Camp to start the challenging and intensive process of preparing three short works for the stage. All three works will be performed under the banner of “Switch”.

The works include “It’s Dark” by local playwright and theatre maker Steph Clark of Impact Theatre; “Loop” devised by Sarah Hartnell of Impact Theatre and Rough Conduct Theatre with Romi Kupfer, and “Desire” by new playwright Ella Salome of Bethanga.

The 16th youth project of the Victorian Drama League since 2008, the theatre residential aims to give immersive and intensive training to the young actors, many of whom see it as a transitional opportunity to work towards adult focused theatre companies.

The organisers are excited to have a team of seven directors working with the ensemble casts to allow “hands on deck” for young people to be trained in tech theatre aspects and get a supported, mentored introduction to theatre direction.

Camp Leaders Andrew Davies of Coalville and Joanne Watt of Trafalgar have been working together on these youth projects since winter of 2015. Design, set, prop and costume mistress Eliza Bain of Newborough joined the team from mid-2016.

The project has support from Trafalgar and District Community Bank and its Youth Foundation, which significantly provides for the youth staying in Yarragon at Allambee Camp.

Shontelle O’Connor from Wonthaggi and Alannah Hunt from Crossover have been sponsored by Baw Baw Arts Alliance, and Ella Robson and Dayna Tampaline both have received Baw Baw Shire Community Development Grant support.

“Switch” will be performed on Saturday at 2pm and 8pm as well as Sunday at 2pm.

This contemporary theatre offering is suitable for over 13s with a smattering of adult themes and the occasional course language. Expect some strong performances from the cast which has an average age of 17.

All tickets are $12 and can be purchased at the door or by visiting eventbrite.com.au.