Eumundi Voice Issue 123

ART ABOUT

Not Short on Surprises

Nine years ago, Noosa Arts Theatre (NAT) Lifetime Members Jane Rivers and Sue Sewell faced a small gap between productions and arranged a competition for original plays lasting under 10min, directed and acted by members with 3 performances only. Shorts on Stage was a huge success and is now an annual event. This year’s Shorts on Stage is presented on 30-31 August with an extra surprise.

Coordinator Jane Rivers said the smorgasbord of comedies and dramas includes new works by Simon Denver from Maleny, Darryl Eastgate and Sue Sewell from Buderim, as well as pieces by

established playwrights Martin Paul Roche and Jane Cafarella. Some of the coast’s best actors will be strutting their stuff on stage – 28 in total – including Joy Marshall, Ali Lambole, Brett Klease and Bruce Campbell – winner of Best Actor at this year’s Noosa Arts One Act Playwriting Festival. Adjudicator Rory Williamson – son of patron David – has directed and appeared in many NAT productions between his local business, extensive theatre, film and TV appearances. Rory will choose the Best Director and Best of Anything Awards. Audiences also vote for their favourite “short” which receives $300 and runner-up $200. The Gift of Machiavelli by Michael Olsen, directed by Tania Nash with actors Jenni McCaul, Bruce Campbell and Lily Parisi will also be performed as an extra treat besides the 10 “shorts.” Michael has regularly featured among the winners at Noosa Arts Theatre’s One Act Play Festivals.

There are just 3 shows: 30 August at 2pm and 7.30pm, and 31 August at 2pm. Tickets are $25. Bookings: noosaartstheatre.org.au or phone (07) 5449 9343. Eileen Walder