Act Your Age: History II

Site Design: Rogan Brown

Webmaster: Philip Crouch

2009-2010 continued

Finances continued to remain limited, and in some instances prevented further AYA objectives being achieved. Contributions were received from AYA performers, some public performances, and in-kind donations.

During this period an affiliation was formed with Tasmanian Regional Arts Inc who in 2011 provided an auspice role for AYA in applying for a Clarence City Council Community Partnership Grant. Community theatre-in-the-round performances were presented at various venues in southern Tasmania including Probus Clubs, Schools for Seniors, service clubs, conferences and seminars.

2011-2012 – Act Your Age

It is opportune to mention that community network support with photocopying, printing script books and newsletters, and similar in-kind actions have helped to maintain AYA’s financial viability. Of particular mention are DHHS – Health Promotions, Julie Collins MHR, Andrew Wilkie MHR, Senator Carol Brown, Kwik Kopy, Hobart City Council, 50 and Better Centre and Clarence City Council.

In 2011 AYA was successful in receiving a Community Partnership Grant from Clarence City Council for $15,000. Amongst careful purchases AYA bought a new portable sound system and performer microphones for use in community hall venues and similar locations.

New theatrical performance opportunities enabled AYA to develop and produce four new productions during 2011, two of which required collaboration with the Bellerive Historical Society, Bass Strait Drifters (Tasmania) and the Clarence City Council Governor Macquarie Celebrations.

In October 2011 the group decided to introduce an a cappella and accompanied singing component into all future productions.

As well, a new approach to theatre-in-the-round will focus on the lives of zany characters from “Stonehouse Gully”, an imaginary Australian township, which will result in a series of one-act melodramas. New production programs are currently being developed to reflect this theatrical format.

Jim Beresford has accepted the role of AYA Musical Director, with Philip Crouch maintaining Drama Director and Production responsibilities.

On 6 February, 2012 an open audition session is being held at 50 and Better Centre, Hobart, for potential new players to join this invigorated, creative, hard working, friendly group of mature age performers.

Further information about the audition, and how to obtain an audition kit are available here.