Play based on Velveteen Rabbit

An information session for an upcoming production by the Mental Health Theatre Project will be held on Thursday, May 31, commencing 7.30pm.

Project representative Mr Paul Russell said that, following the "stunning success" of last years production of "Marat/Sade" at The Peninsula Theatre, the Central Coast Mental Health Community was once again working on another production for this years Mental Health Week.

"This year the group, which includes people who experience mental illness, staff of the Central Coast Mental Health Services, and practitioners from local theatre groups, will be performing a play based on the classic story The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams," Mr Russell said.

The production, which will be called "Get Real!", will feature an original script and specially created songs and dance.

"It will be suitable for an audience from nine to 99," said Mr Russell.

"'Get Real!' follows the Velveteen Rabbit's journey through love and loneliness to become who he was really meant to be.

"It is a story that inspires us all on our own journey to 'Real'.

"As the wise old Skin Horse tells the Rabbit: 'Real isn't how you are made... It's a thing that happens to you. You become'."

Mr Russell said that 20 performers of all ages were required for the performance.

He said that the show would include singing, and suggested that soloists and chorus performers should apply.

"We are also seeking expressions of interest from back stage crew, set and costume makers, and front of house crew," Mr Russell said.

"Rehearsals will be held at Niagara Park on Monday and Thursday nights, commencing Thursday, June 28."

Performances will be held at The Peninsula Theatre, Woy Woy.

Evenings performances will be held on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, September 27 to 29, while matinees will be held on Saturday, Monday and Tuesday, September 29 to October 2.

Performances will also be held at Wyong Memorial Hall with an evening performance on Wednesday, October 10, and matinees on Tuesday and Wednesday and Thursday, October 9 to 11.

Auditions will be held on Tuesday, June 5, or Thursday, June 7, from 7.30pm.

All of the information sessions will be held at New Horizons Enterprises, 64 William St, Gosford.

For more information, telephone Paul Russell on 0438 222 802, or Terry Collins on 0425 370 560.

Press release, 14 May 2007 Paul Russel, Ad Hoc Community Theatre and Central Coast ARAFMI