Friday 8th July 2022
Page 5
CENTRE STAGE’S NEXT MUSICAL BONNIE AND CLYDE The story of Bonnie and Clyde has mesmerised since the early 1930s. Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow were a robbery team that became notorious in the United States, through their flamboyant encounters with police and the sensationalisation of their exploits by the country’s newspapers. The legendary quality of Barrow’s and Parker’s careers is not difficult to understand, given the extreme desperation of the times. Their crime spree occurred at the height of the Great Depression,
which hit very hard in the southern states. Although the reality of their story was anything but glamorous, their love and devotion to each other was without question. For CentreStage Rolleston, taking on a show like Bonnie and Clyde represents a step away from the safety of popular mainstream musicals. The aim has been to remain true to the story within its historical context and without glamourising the use of firearms. This show has taken many months of planning to bring to
Craig Bingham (Clyde) and Layna Hunt (Bonnie).
the stage. The amount of voluntary hours that goes into a production is phenomenal, from the planning, set designing, costume creating, rehearsing, packing in, performances and then packing out, there are 1,000s of hours that are dedicated to bring a story to life. It ignites a passion in all those involved, a desire to strive for excellence and opportunities for
individuals to use their specific skills and talents for a greater purpose. CentreStage Rolleston is nothing without the local community. The five shows that we have produced over the last three years, wouldn’t have been possible without the great volunteer army on which we draw, who are more than willing to donate their time and skills.
Our Director, Glen Clark, can't wait to share the show with everyone. “Theatre brings people together and I am so proud to have worked alongside this amazing and talented team. Each and every one of them are committed to bringing the best possible theatre to our wonderful community, and Bonnie and Clyde is no exception”. Glen Clark and Nickie Hughes.
