Forget fame and megabucks, the dedicated members of Perth’s independent theatre scene are driven by a love of their craft and a commitment to producing great entertainment.
Western Australia has a plethora of independent theatre groups, ranging from small, rural ensembles to high-end companies who stage several projects every year and productions vary from original drama and comedy to well-loved musicals and classic plays.
WA’s independent theatre scene even has their own annual awards ceremony, the Robert Finley Awards, which include categories such as best play, best musical, best director and best costumes, among others.
Independent theatre groups receive little or no funding, so all aspects of production are carried out by volunteers. This leads to a tight-knit community who are willing to sacrifice their time in the name of art.
Apart from being a qualified pilot and singing teacher, David Gray is a seasoned performer who has appeared in numerous independent productions in WA.
‘At the end of this year I will have gone two and a half years straight without having a break from a show,’ he told OUTinPerth.
Gray is currently rehearsing for Mesh Theatre Company’s upcoming production of The Wedding Singer, in which he will be playing Robbie Hart (the role made famous by Adam Sandler in the film), and is also scheduled to appear in the Pride Festival season of bare later this year.
‘I’ve spent every Saturday afternoon for the last three months with The Wedding Singer and the week of the production I’m giving up every night of the week, but it’s not a problem because I like doing it.’
While based on the film, this production of The Wedding Singer is a musical that ran for seven months on Broadway and features original songs written by Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin. Mesh Theatre Company will be going all-out for their interpretation, incorporating a live rock band and outrageous costumes.
‘There are some atrociously brilliant outfits,’ explains Gray.
‘There’s bubble skirts, there’s a lot of crimped hair, there’s fluro, there’s parachute pants, there’s lycra. Its so pop-tastic 80’s it’s almost cringe-worthy, but everyone loves it. It’s so infectious; it’s just so much fun.’
Gray says his work in independent theatre has given him skills which he applies to all aspects of his life.
‘I’ve made friends, contacts and have the freedom and ability to perform in a variety of roles,’ he said.
To get involved in independent theatre, contact your local independent theatre group or log on to the Independent Theatre Association’s website: www.theatre.asn.au
Mesh Theatre Company is a youth musical company for people aged 16-30. More details at: www.meshtheatre.com.au
The Wedding Singer runs from August 12-15 at the Subiaco Arts Centre. Tickets are available at www.bocs.com.au or on 9484 1133.
Amy Henderson
