BADS Booklet 2026 (A5)

BERRIGAN MEMORIAL HALL FRIDAY, JULY 31 SATURDAY, AUGUST 1 SUNDAY, AUGUST 2 (MATINEE) FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 (FINALE)

DIRECTED BY HELEN DICKIE

Act One O u r s to r y b e g i n s i n d u s t y Ka n s a s i n t h e g r i p o f a c yc l o n e a n d f o l l ow s D o ro t h y ’s j o u r n e y to t h e m a g i c a l land of Oz. S c e n e 1 : C yc l o n e M u s i c a l N u m b e r s : S o m e w h e re O ve r T h e R a i n b ow Scene 2: Munchkinland M u s i c a l n u m b e r s : D i n g D o n g ! T h e Wi tc h i s D e a d , Ye l l ow Brick Road S c e n e 3 : S c a r e c r ow i n t h e Co r n f i e l d M u s i c a l n u m b e r s : I f I O n l y H a d a B ra i n , We' re O f f to S e e t h e Wi z a rd S c e n e 5 : Ti n M a n i n t h e Fo r e s t M u s i c a l n u m b e r s : I f I O n l y H a d a H e a r t , We' re O f f to S e e t h e Wi z a rd S c e n e 6 : Cowa r d l y L i o n M u s i c a l n u m b e r s : I f I O n l y H a d t h e N e r ve , We' re O f f to S e e t h e Wi z a rd S c e n e 7: A F i e l d o f P o p p i e s M u s i c a l n u m b e r s : Po p p i e s ( A c t I F i n a l e )

Act Two With the Emerald City in sight, Dorothy and her friends are one step closer to the Wizard - but so is the Wicked Witch! Will they have the brains, heart and courage to guide Dorothy home?

Scene 1: The Emerald City Musical numbers: Merry Old Land of Oz, King of the Fo re s t Scene 2: The Wizard's Chamber S c e n e 3 : T h e W i tc h ' s C a s t l e M u s i c a l n u m b e r s : M a rc h o f t h e Wi n k i e s S c e n e 4 : H a u n te d Fo r e s t M u s i c a l n u m b e r s : J i tte r b u g S c e n e 5 : I n s i d e T h e W i tc h ' s C a s t l e S c e n e 6 : O u t s i d e T h e W i tc h ’s C a s t l e M u s i c a l n u m b e r s : M a rc h o f t h e Wi n k i e s Scene 7 The Rescue M u s i c a l N u m b e r s : S o m e w h e re O ve r T h e R a i n b ow, D i n g D o n g T h e Wi tc h i s D e a d ( Wi n k i e s ve r s i o n ) Scene 8: The Wizard's Chamber S c e n e 9 : Tow n s q u a r e , T h e E m e r a l d C i t y S c e n e 9 : T h e r e ’s N o P l a c e L i ke H o m e Act II Finale

Cast and Crew Dorothy - Miller Simpson You may recognise Miller’s stunning voice from the 2024 BADS Musical Spectacular, and she has performed in a range of school productions, including The Frog Prince, Captain Star Blaster, Alice in Wonderland, and previously took on the role of Toto in The Wizard of Oz. While Miller is no stranger to the stage, this marks her first BADS production, and audiences will love heading Somewhere Over The Rainbow by Miller’s Dorothy.

Toto - Eloise Hourigan Eloise is a Grade 5 student at St Joseph’s Primary School Cobram and makes her BADS Debut in The Wizard of Oz. Having recently performed in Legally Blonde with the Numurkah Singers in 2025, Eloise is already making her mark on stage. Outside of the theatre she enjoys reading and playing sport.

Her favourite part of being involved in BADS has been the fun friendships and being part of a wonderful group.

Glinda - Heidi Walsh Heidi was a standout debut performer in The Addams Family (2025) as The Bride Ancestor, she has been involved in a number of performances with St Mary of The Angels Nathalia, including; Rock of Ages, Big Fish and Mamma Mia. This year Heidi floats onto centre stage as the glorious good Witch Glinda.

Scarecrow - Ben Stonnill A crowd favourite, audiences will recognise Ben from his unforgettable performances both on and off the stage. In 2023, Ben was Director of Don’t Get Your Vicars in a Twist, before taking on the role of Sound Technician for the 2024 production of Clue. He starred in the 2023 and 2024 BADS Musical Spectacular and captivated audiences as the love-struck Uncle Fester in The Addams Family in 2025. This year, you’ll fall for the lovable Scarecrow, Dorothy’s first friend in Oz, as he faces his fears, including feathered foe and fire, all in pursuit of friendship (and brains!)

Cowardly Lion - Duncan Brown Duncan impressed audiences in his 2025 BADS debut as Gomez Addams in The Addams Family and recently appeared in Little Women with the Numurkah Singers. Duncan’s previous theatre experience includes productions in Albury, as well as sketch comedy, improvisation and original plays in Melbourne, most notably as a member of the Mudcrabs Theatre Group. He brings plenty of energy, humour and stage presence to every performance and shines as the (not so) Cowardly Lion who finds more than just courage on the Yellow Brick Road.

Cast and Crew The Tinman - Dan Barnes Dan is making his BADS acting debut as the Tinman, but you would never know it. A gifted musician, he wowed audiences with his guitar performances in the BADS Musical Spectaculars in 2023 and 2024. Now, he brings that same charisma to Oz. With a strong voice, natural on stage presence, Dan is an emerging star who has impressed the entire cast and crew. Away from the performing arts, you'll find him honing his martial arts skills as an amateur Muay Thai fighter.

Annie Cameron - The Wicked Witch of the West A member of BADS since 2019, Annie has been involved in several productions including Sleeping Beauty, Don’t Get Your Vicars in a Twist and Clue. Her considerable vocal talent was an asset to The Addams Family ensemble in 2025, where, behind the curtains, she was also outstanding as Stage Manager. This year, Annie is formiddable as she steps astride her broomstick and embraces the iconic role of the Wicked Witch of the West out for revenge, Dorothy’s ruby slippers … and her little dog too!

Guard - Sophie Figgans Sophie is a Year 12 student at St Mary of the Angels Nathalia, where she proudly serves as the school's Arts Leader. She has an impressive list of stage credits, including; Annie, High School Musical, Mamma Mia!, Big Fish, Rock of Ages and All Shook Up. A talented performer with a beautiful singing voice, Sophie brings enthusiasm and experience to the role of the Guard in The Wizard of Oz, she also supports the chorus ensemble, keeping Scarecrow busy as one of the trio of crows.

The Wizard of Oz - Blake Hutchison The wonderful Wizard of Oz is Blake Hutchison. Blake first graced the BADS stage last year as the towering Lurch, the stone-faced butler of The Addams Family. A Wizard on and off the stage Blake was responsible for many of the noteworthy props from Addams including the infamous torture chair. This year, Blake dazzles in the Emerald City while actually designing and building it behind the scenes and working backstage.

Auntie Em - Tamara Graham Tamara’s vocal range was discovered in the 2023 and 2024 BADS Musical Spectacular. Then in 2025 she stepped away from the limelight to work with Helen Dickie as Assistant Director of The Addams Family. This year, Tamara is Auntie Em and joins the chorus as a Munchkin, Winkie and Oz Citizen!

Cast and Crew NIKO - Sloane Bonat Sloane has a passion for drama and has been involved in a number of school productions. In 2025 Sloane was a Pirate Ancestor in her debut BADS performance in The Addams Family. This year she is NIKO, right hand monkey to the Wicked Witch of the West. Sloane also supports the chorus ensemble and appears as a Munchkin, cheeky Crow and Oz Citizen.

Chorus - Bob Condon With more than 40 years of experience with BADS you’d think Bob would be allowed to retire from the stage – but we won’t let him! Bob returns this year in a variety of roles including Mayor of Munchkin Land, Oz Citizen and Winkie, enslaved by the Wicked Witch of the West! Bob’s dedication to BADS extends well beyond the curtains to set design, development and backstage crew.

Chorus - Marianne Whelan This will be Marianne’s 10th BADS production, she has brought her versatility, energy and sense of fun to various stage performances including Free and Easy, The Masked Canary and most recently The Addams Family (2025). This year, Mez is the tallest Munchkin in Oz, a Wise Tree, a Poppy, Oz Citizen and The General – Leader of the Winkies, enslaved by The Wicked Witch of the West! Is there anything she can’t do!?

Chorus - Marissa Daly Marissa has a love for theatre and was involved in several stage productions throughout school and university. She represented BADS in Act Your Age, The Last Eisteddfod and The Addams Family as Morticia. She steps into the ensemble this year as a Munchkin, Tree, Poppy, Oz Citizen and Winkie!

Chorus - James Matlock An exciting new face to BADS, this is James’ debut performance. His journey begins in Munchkinland as Coroner Munchkin, then into the dark forest as part of the Tree trio. He is also a Poppy, Oz Citizen and enslaved Winkie.

James has supported set design and development with the creation of props for Oz. BADS is thrilled to have another creative team member joining in 2026.

Cast and Crew Chorus - Sheana Guthrie Music and performance have always been part of Sheana's life, from musical theatre in high school to singing with choirs and appearing in community productions, including the 36 Degrees South Choir in Shepparton. After several years away from the stage while raising her children, she's excited to be rekindling her love of musical theatre in The Wizard of Oz, where she makes her BADS debut in a variety of ensemble roles including; a Lullaby League Munchkin, an enchanted Poppy, Oz Citizen and Winkie. Welcome to the BADS team!

Chorus - Catherine Healy The talented Catherine fist appeared with BADS in Sleeping Beauty (2019).

She has entertained communities far and wide as part of the Berrigan Bush Drovers for many years. Catherine also performs with the Amagroovers and is part of the trio making up band Mulberry Street. Her natural stage presence and energy brings plenty of sparkle to The Land of OZ.

Chorus - Joseph Healy No stranger to the stage, Jo has performed with St Joseph Primary School, Finley in Madagascar, the Lorax and Descendants. Jo also sings with South West Music and perfoms in various recitals. He will soon be a household name when he appears on ABC in an episode of Hard Quiz Kids! Jo steps onto stage as part of the Lollypop Guild (Tough Guy Munchkins), as an Oz Citizens and Evil Monkey.

Chorus - Jack Healy Jack has experience in productions through St Joseph’s Primary School Finley in Madagascar and The Lorax. He shines in his debut performance wtih BADS in the Lollypop Guild (Tough Guy Munchkins), as an Oz Citizen and an Evil Monkey.

Chorus - Lawson Greatorex Lawson got a taste for the spotlight in 2025 when he appeared Front of House as Cousin It in The Addams Family. This year, Lawson joins Jo and Jack Healy as the trio steal the show as the Lollypop Guild (Tough Guy Munchkins), Oz Citizens and an Evil Monkeys.

Cast and Crew Sound Technician - Tash Jones The brilliant and endlessly talented Tash Jones is a genuine leading lady of this production. Responsible for Light and Sound (arguable the most challenging and treacherous task in the theatre) Tash makes it look easy.

With endless patience, an amazing ear for sound and eye for detail, she brings the magic of Oz to life (and to Berrigan). As skilled on stage as off, Tash has starred in a number of productions for BADS including, Clue and The Addams Family. We are incredibly blessed to have the truly talented Tash in our midst.

Costume Coordinator - Kath Harris Berrigan local Kath is a Life Member of BADS, she is currently Club Treasurer, Costume Coordinator and long-time performer. Kath loves amateur theatre and has a strong musical background. With members of the chorus playing multiple roles, Kath has had her work cut out for her this year, managing a whirlwind of costume changes behind the scenes.

Dance Choreography - Ellie Davis Originally from Melbourne, Ellie has been dancing since the age of two, training in ballet, contemporary and jazz. She brings a wealth of experience, energy and creativity to The Wizard of Oz as Dance Choreographer. Away from the stage, Ellie is a teacher at Cobram Secondary College and is also a trainer for Victoria's Under 14 Girls AFL representative team. BADS is delighted to have Ellie sharing her passion and talent with this production.

Dance Choreography - Coralie Guthrie Coralie dances Ballet, Jazz and Contemporary with Goulburn Valley Academy of dance. She was recently accepted to Transit Dance in Brunswick, which is a full time academic and performance school. The Addams Family (2025) was her debut performance with BADS, where she was both ancestor and stepped in as an understudy to Wednesday Addams. Coralie has supported Ellie this year in Dance Choreography.

Music Director - Tess Gerbert Tess was involved in a number of productions through high school and she rediscovered her passion for Musical Theatre in the role of Meg, in Little Women, with The Numurkah Singers (2025). Tess is currently studying Outdoor Leadership at TAFE Wodonga and she brings her considerable talent and knowledge to support BADS on their way to OZ.

Cast and Crew Backstage Crew - Toby Loomes After making his backstage debut with The Addams Family last year, Toby returns to lend his quiet reliability to The Wizard of Oz. While he may prefer to stay out of the spotlight, his willingness to help and steady support behind the curtains are an important part of bringing the magic to life.

Thanks must also go to ...

It takes many dedicated, creative and talented people behind the scenes to stage a successful production. Many thanks to our makeup artists for 2026 including; Korina Barry, Ann Jones and Ellie Davis. To the family and friends of the cast who provide meals, snacks and support and a special mention to Narlene Griffith who prepares lunch every rehearsal for the cast and crew.

Thank you to our Committee President Riley Nolen for his ongoing support and dedication to ensure BADS continues to progress each year.

To our hard-working catering team lead by Jill Petzke and Iris Miles who (for many years) have provided a delicious hot supper or afternoon tea for our audience. To Neville Dalgliesh and the Berrigan Memorial Hall Committee, we are incredibly fortunate to enjoy such a strong and collaborative partnership. Their ongoing support and flexibility make it possible for BADS to bring productions to the stage.

Thank you to Nathalia Printers for sponsoring and printing this booklet they are simply a joy to work with (www.nathaliaprinters.com.au).

We were very fortunate this year to have the support of The Strawberry Fields Festival Grant Funding and of course the many sponsors listed in this booklet.

The enduring support BADS receives from our community, businesses, volunteers and local organisations is a testament not only to the strong connections we have built over many years, but also to the generous, community-minded spirit that defines the Berrigan Shire.

Sincerely, thank you.

Cast and Crew Director Helen Dickie A.L.C.M, AM

Helen has been involved with the Drama Club, now known as BADS, both on and off the stage for more than 60 years. Renowned for her many directing roles, Helen returned to the director's chair in 2025 after a break of several years, leading the sell-out production of The Addams Family.

In 2026 she brings her experience and passion to the The Wizard of Oz. While Helen says this will be her final year as Director, BADS is hopeful she will remain part of the society, continuing to share her wealth of knowledge, dedication and, of course, her famously strong opinions.

Here, Helen shares some memories from the past 60 plus years.

Drama has always been an integral part of Berrigan. The earliest meetings recorded were in the Momalong Hotel in 1896, however there are also records of the Drama Club Performing in the School of Arts in Drummond St in 1892.

My first appearance on the Berrigan Stage was 62 years ago, when I appeared as Ruth in Noel Coward’s Blithe Spirit, directed by the wonderfully austere English Director Mrs Alma Lynas.

Mrs Lynas never cast a play, she ‘picked’ her cast. We’d rehearse for at least six months and then perform for one night only.

Twenty-five years later, I directed Blythe Spirit with virtually the original cast, something that could only happen in a town like Berrigan. Marg Netley was the inimitable Madame Arcati, Judy Chisholm played Elvira, Kevin Bush was Charles and Bill Abbott was Dr George Bradman.

The Drama Club has survived thanks to the enthusiasm of many directors and casts over the years, too many to mention here. Years before I came to Berrigan, Malcolm Dickie worked with Mrs Lynas, she directed many Vaudeville shows in which Malcolm swallowed razor blades, performed magic shows , whip cracking and lay on the bed of nails.

There were fun shows with the Football Club too, where I discovered footballers love nothing more than dressing up in tutu’s. We staged Berrigan All Over several times in the Federal Hotel dining room, and Richard Glover from the Sydney Morning Herald gave us a six-page spread in the Good Weekend.

Sydney directors were brought down to work with young people across the district and we worked with George Mannix, Jenny Nichols, Zoe Carides and many others. George introduced us to plays like Animal Farm, The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe and The Little Prince and students loved every minute.

The Berrigan Bushdrovers grew out of the Drama Club sparked by our discovery of one the best Lagerphone players around. The bush band ran for 30 years, often performing three times a weekend in an assortment of venues. The Bushdrovers even played in Bangkok, and travelled through Outback Queensland singing, reciting poetry and calling bush dances. Tim Fischer had us perform at many of his functions too.

So many people have given years of their time and dedication that I can only mention a few.

Malcolm Dickie, sound technician and a quiet source of the best ideas I ever had! Jill Petzke, who has made and sourced costume material for over forty years and, since the passing of the wonderful Heather Barclay, has taken over the catering for our performances as well.

Over the years, local support has kept this club alive and inspired us to keep performing.

As I step away from directing, I do so knowing BADS is in wonderful hands. Under the leadership of Committee President Riley Nolen and a talented, creative and dedicated team of individuals, led artistically by Ben Stonnill - whom I've had the privilege of teaching and working alongside for more than twenty years - the club is going from strength to strength.

Drama is alive and well in Berrigan!

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