Three Colours Exhibition Open At Shepparton Art Gallery
12 July 2005
Three Colours, a new Heide Museum of Modern Art traveling exhibition, opened recently at the Shepparton Art Gallery and will be showing until 14 August 2005.
It features the work of two prominent artists, both notable for being provocative and politically inflammatory.
Gordon Bennett, from
Peter Robinson, from
“This exhibition is a visually stunning display of imagery and text,” says Shepparton Art Gallery Director, Leanne Willis.
“Their work compels the viewer to reflect on their own personal and social identities and the contemporary events and experiences that shape our world today.”
“This is the first time since the 1990s that Australian audiences have had the opportunity to view Robinson’s work.”
Colouring Competition to Bring Larry to Life
20 June 2005
The Shepparton Art Gallery is holding a colouring competition for children in the region as part of its campaign to ‘Bring Back Larry’.
Director, Ms Leanne Willis, said the competition was open to everyone in the community under 14 years to show their support for the gallery’s campaign to resurrect the vandalised sculpture.
“We have been inundated with calls from residents, particularly parents, who have expressed the distress their children have felt at the loss of ‘Larry’ in the community,” Ms Willis said.
“The colouring competition will be an excellent way for the community, especially the children who love Larry, to become involved in this campaign.”
The gallery’s intention is to raise funds so that artist Pamela Irving can create a new version of “Larry” the dog in the same size but constructed from steel and cement, and covered in mosaic.
The winner of the competition will receive a miniature version of Larry, valued at $250, generously and proudly donated by the Shepparton Art Gallery.
“Come to the gallery to pick up an entry form and help us bring Larry back to life!”
Entries will be received until Friday 22nd July and will be displayed in the foyer of the Eastbank Centre, Welsford Street, Shepparton. Only one entry per person will be accepted.
To donate to help with the rebuilding of Larry, the sculpture by artist Pamela Irving that was vandalised at the Shepparton Art Gallery, contact the gallery on 5832 9861, visit them at the Eastbank centre, 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton or write to Bring Back Larry c/o: Shepparton Art Gallery, Locked Bag 1000, Shepparton, Vic 3632. All donations are tax deductible.
Acclaimed Novel ZigZag Street Comes to Stage
19 June 2005
Meet Richard Derrington. Richard is twenty-eight and single. More single than he’d like to be. More single than he’d expected to be, and he’s not coping terribly well…
The acclaimed novel by Nick Earls, ‘ZigZag Street’, is now a play, and it’s coming to the WestSide Performing Arts Centre on Tuesday 5th July.
The Council’s Manager for Performing Arts and Conventions, Mr Rob Robson, said the play told the story of Richard Derrington and his attempts to find himself and reclaim his life after his girlfriend left him six months earlier.
“Richard is trying to renovate his grandmother’s house in ZigZag Street, Red Hill, but finds his efforts are stalled,” Mr Robson said.
“The more he tries to be a nineties man, the more he tries to be desirable, the more he searches for calm, the more things get more out of control.”
‘Zigzag Street’ covers six weeks of Richard’s life in the house his grandparents built – six weeks of rumination, chaos, poor judgement, interpersonal clumsiness and, eventually, hope.
Adapted from Nick Earls’ novel by Philip Dean and described as a ‘comic masterpiece’,
‘ZigZag Street’ features fantastic ideas, funny situations and clever writing.
‘ZigZag Street’ will be performed at 8.00 pm on Tuesday 5th July at the WestSide Performing Arts Centre. For bookings or more information, please contact the Riverlinks Box Office on 5832 9511, or drop into the Eastbank Centre, 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton.
Puff the Magic Dragon – Brought to Life on Stage in the School Holidays
15 June 2005
A highlight of this school holidays will be two performances of the delightful ‘Puff the Magic Dragon’ at the Eastbank Centre on Wednesday 29th June at 11.00 am and 1.00 pm.
‘Puff the Magic Dragon’ was first presented at Playbox Theatre in January 1981. Since then, it has toured throughout Australia and New Zealand extensively, playing to enthusiastic audiences eager to see this musical on stage.
The Council’s Manager for Performing Arts and Conventions, Mr Rob Robson, said that it was a high energy musical with a multi-talented cast.
“Garry Ginivan Attractions continues to be known as Australia’s leading producer of quality children’s theatre and their presentation of ‘Puff the Magic Dragon’ is another fine example of their success.”
“There will be the classic pantomime characters, audience participation and this timeless story will appeal to all ages, especially the very young – and young at heart!” Mr Robson said.
The musical is based on the popular song written by Peter Yarrow and Leonard Lipton. Garry Ginivan’s original concept, script and lyrics are supported by the original score by Faye Bendrups.
‘Puff the Magic Dragon’ follows a number of successful Garry Ginivan productions such as Peter Rabbit, Possum Magic the Musical and Pinnochio.
This will be a great way to entertain the family in the school holidays!
‘Puff the Magic Dragon’ will be presented at 11.00 am and 1.00 pm on Wednesday 29th June at the Eastbank Centre, Shepparton.
For bookings or more information, please contact the Riverlinks Box Office on 5832 9511, or drop into the Eastbank Centre, 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton.
Help the Art Gallery Rebuild Larry
9 June 2005
After a cowardly act of vandalism on the Shepparton Art Gallery’s canine sculpture “Larry” by artist Pamela Irving, the Greater Shepparton community is fighting back. A campaign has been launched to rebuild the sculpture which was, in the words of Pamela Irving, “a happy and welcoming character to the gallery’s entrance”.
Mayor of Greater Shepparton, Cr Anne McCamish, said she had received an overwhelming response from the community, in particular children and younger people, about Larry.
“Since the pointless destruction occurred, so many people have approached the Council and the Shepparton Art Gallery to express their disappointment at Larry’s departure. Due to the support received, and after discussions with artist Pamela Irving, we have decided to rebuild Larry and are seeking the community’s support,” Cr McCamish said.
“Our community will not ‘roll over’ to the pointless vandalism of this wonderful piece of public art. Our intention is to raise funds so that Pamela Irving can create a new version of “Larry” the dog in the same size but constructed from steel and cement, and covered in mosaic,” she added.
“While Larry was insured, we are launching a public campaign seeking contributions to assist in his rebuilding and to support public art in our community. This is a wonderful opportunity for those who appreciate the cultural and artistically diverse nature of Greater Shepparton.”
“I encourage anyone interested in donating and showing their support to contact the Shepparton Art Gallery, 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton on 03 5832 9861. Donations are tax deductible,” the Mayor added.
Background information on Larry’s lively life:
1992 Melbourne City Council commissioned Pamela Irving to make a sculpture for the Melbourne City Square. She produced a bronze dog called Larry Latrobe. Larry quickly won the hearts of the locals as well as tourists and visitors alike.
1995 In the dead of a winter night in 1995, Larry was stolen from the City Square causing a public uproar and a plea for his return in Melbourne’s media. He was dognapped, and remains unrecovered to this day!
In an effort to flush Larry of out of hiding, the Melbourne City Council built a 3 metre high float of Larry for the Moomba Parade. The float was then taken to Japan to be Melbourne’s ambassador in the Midosuji Parade, Osaka. The float won the award for Best Float in the Parade.
1997 A kind benefactor, Peter Kolliner, paid for Larry to be recast for the City of Melbourne. Larry was reinstated, this time with very secure footings. The City Square has been refurbished with Larry relocated on the corner of Swanston and Collins Street Melbourne where he remains an icon.
The Moomba Float was given to Pamela Irving and lived on her verandah for some time. It was the base for the sculpture installed at the front of the Shepparton Art Gallery in September 2004.
2004 The fiberglass-coated bright blue Larry was installed at the Shepparton Art Gallery. It was a perfect replica of Larry La Trobe, as in the city square of Melbourne. “Larry” was donated by the artist to the City of Greater Shepparton and a private Foundation (the Fairley Foundation through Perpetual Trustees) paid for him to be fibre glassed.
2005 Larry was intentionally and foolishly destroyed by vandals.
NOW THE GREATER SHEPPARTON COMMUNITY REBUILDS LARRY
Piano Virtuoso As You’ve Never Seen Him Before
9 June 2005
Greater Shepparton audiences are invited to witness a not-to-be-missed performance from one of the most outstanding musicians in the world today, pianist Roger Woodward.
Appearing at the Eastbank Centre on Saturday 25th June from 8.00 pm, this is a Roger Woodward Australian audiences have never seen before.
The Council’s Manager for Performing Arts and Conventions, Mr Rob Robson, said Woodward’s piano virtuosity is as compelling as ever, but it is his ability to captivate his audience that steals the show.
“In the world of classical music, few people have earned global respect and admiration quite like this acclaimed pianist,” Mr Robson said.
In his career, Woodward has developed a prodigious repertoire of traditional concertos and chamber pieces in addition to his command of twentieth century music.
“His mastery will be on display in rare and exciting fine music experience.”
Roger Woodward will perform at 8.00 pm on Saturday 25th June at the Eastbank Centre.
For bookings or more information, please contact the Riverlinks Box Office on 5832 9511, or drop into the Eastbank Centre, 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton.
Comedy’s Best Take Roadtrip to Shepparton
9 June 2005
Looking for a night of stand-up, in-your-face, knock-you-down comedy? Look no further, the circus that is the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is coming to town!
Shepparton will welcome the talents of some of the best comedians on the international circuit with the arrival of this ever-popular event on Wednesday 22nd June.
This year’s line up (subject to confirmation) includes the varied and hilarious performances of Matt King (UK), Tommy Dean (USA) and Australian comedians Nelly Thomas, Justin Hamilton and Elbowskin.
Boasting television credits including The Glasshouse, Sunrise, Good News Week, Rove Live and Skithouse, and countless stand-up and festival appearances, these performers are some of the finest and funniest comedians the world has to offer.
Greater Shepparton City Council’s Manager of Performing Arts and Conventions, Mr Rob Robson, said the travelling roadshow was an exciting inclusion the annual calendar for Riverlinks.
“It’s such a wonderful opportunity for regional centres to host some of the world’s best comedians each year when the roadshow comes to town,” Mr Robson said.
“Every year our audiences turn out in strength in anticipation of a really great night out, and this year’s event is proving to be no exception. A special feature of this year’s presentation will be that we are using it as a way of raising funds for Shepparton’s Community Fund, and we strongly encourage people to support this very worthwhile campaign.”
The Melbourne Comedy Festival Roadshow will be presented at 8.00 pm on Wednesday 22nd June at the Eastbank Centre.
For bookings or more information, please contact the Riverlinks Box Office on 5832 9511, or drop into the Eastbank Centre,
70 Welsford Street, Shepparton.
Masters of Physical Comedy Come to Riverlinks
26 May 2005
Brilliant, riotous and ridiculous, ‘The Shneedles’ will bring new meaning to non-verbal communication when they perform at WestSide Performing Arts Centre on Friday 3rd June.
Described as masters in the art of physical comedy, ‘The Shneedles’ are the extraordinary duo of Wolfe Bowart and Bill Robison who combine acrobatics, mime, vaudeville, magic, music and comedy to produce absurd and delightful performances.
Rob Robson, Greater Shepparton City Council’s Manager for Performing Arts and Conventions, said the style of performance is reminiscent of Monty Python and Buster Keaton.
“At WestSide ‘The Shneedles’ will perform, ‘Luggage’, a surrealistic tale of two misfit performers and their battle with a magical suitcase. As the performance progresses, their simple show becomes a full-scale comic nightmare!”
“Their comic perfection is even more impressive as they perform almost entirely without words, making it accessible for all audiences on a different level, without language or age barriers,” Mr Robson added.
“Plates fly, inanimate objects come to life, a rubbish bin inhales a man…. Welcome to the kooky world of ‘The Shneedles’!”
‘The Shneedles’ will be presented by Sprit Entertainment and Riverlinks at 7.30 pm on Friday 3rd June at the WestSide Performing Arts Centre.
For bookings or more information, please contact the Riverlinks Box Office on 5832 9511, or drop into the Eastbank Centre, 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton.
“The Shneedles have redefined clowning by bringing a unique combination of grace and humour to the stage as they deal with the deep subjects of life – unrequited love, death and mousetraps in your pants.”
Entertainment ‘On Tap’ with Barmaids at Riverlinks
26 May 2005
Riverlinks will treat audiences to a night out at the pub with a visit from a pair of beer-swilling, karaoke singing barmaids to the WestSide Performing Arts Centre next week.
‘Barmaids’, a hilarious comedy by Australian Playwright Katherine Thomson is the story of two mature barmaids who work at The Arms Hotel in an Australian port town.
The Council’s Manager for Performing Arts and Conventions, Mr Rob Robson, said the barmaids’ jobs are put in jeopardy when new management takes over the business.
“They see a new breed of karaoke singing, topless barmaids moving in on their territory, their ‘home away from home’,” Mr Robson said.
Through this avenue the play looks at the challenges women face everyday in terms of relationships, love, ageing and being valued for their work.
The play stars Genevieve Picot and Valerie Bader as the experienced, straight-talking, wickedly cheeky and truly Australian barmaids.
“Everyone is invited to join in the karaoke, beer drinking and trophy presentations as you watch the two women fight for their little place in the world, and ‘sing like nobody’s listening’.”
‘Barmaids’ will be presented by HIT Productions and Riverlinks at 8.00 pm on Tuesday 31st May at the
WestSide Performing Arts Centre.
For bookings or more information about special ticket deals, please contact the Riverlinks Box Office on 5832 9511, or drop into the Eastbank Centre, 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton.
New Exhibition of Children’s Art Opening at Shepparton Art Gallery
15 May 2005
An exciting new exhibition of local primary school children’s artwork will officially open at the Shepparton Art Gallery on Wednesday 18th May.
‘My Heroes’ is an exhibition of art pieces from students in primary schools across the region serviced by the Tongala Mobile Arts and Craft Centre (MACC) 1 and 2 vans.
The MACC and teachers Gwenifer Hack and Pauline Kilpatrick teach art and craft to rural schools with fewer than 100 students. The MACC vans help to raise the profile of arts in small schools and allow those who would like to become artists develop more skills and experience.
25 schools in the Goulburn Valley are involved in the exhibition and have provided more than 1100 pieces of art for display.
The participating primary schools are from number of small towns throughout the region, including Ardmona, Colbinabbin, Congupna, Currawa, Dhurringile, Dookie, Drummartin, Elmore, Girgarre, Harston, Invergordon, Katamatite East, Katunga, Katunga South, Kialla, Lancaster, Lemnos, Merrigum, Mooroopna Nth, Tallygaroopna, Undera, Wunghnu, Waaia/Yalca South and Zeerust.
The students’ artwork will feature in the foyer of Eastbank and inside the gallery in the Child’s View area.
The exhibition will be officially opened by Brian Collins, Senior Education Officer, Goulburn North Eastern Region, at 11.00 am on Wednesday 18th May.
‘My Heroes’ will continue in the gallery until Sunday 10th July.
Admission to the Shepparton Art Gallery is free and it is open seven days a week from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm. The gallery is located in the Eastbank Centre, 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton, phone (03) 5832 9861.
The Shepparton Art Gallery is supported by the Victorian Government through Arts Victoria and the Community Support Fund, and through the Visual Arts and Craft Strategy, an initiative of the Australian, State and Territory Governments.
Shadowland – A Photographic Exhibition to Touch the Australian Heart
8 May 2005
Local refugees living on Temporary Protection Visas will share their experiences, struggles and hopes at the launch of a new photography exhibition at the Shepparton Art Gallery on Thursday 12th May.
The exhibition is a close collaboration between photographer Viv Mehes, and a number of refugees living on temporary visas in Australia.
It interweaves photo narratives with murals and text, and real fragments of the lives of Wiam, Usama, Shafiqa, Lailya, Masoud and Mohammed, who speak of their exile from their home countries, their struggle to find a safe haven in Australia and their hopes for the future.
Over one and a half years, the photographer has worked closely with the participants as they chose stories and experiences they wished to share with the Australian public. The resulting exhibition tells a tale of remarkable resilience and dignity as they struggle to live in the uncertain shadowland of the new
open-ended rolling visas.
Bold two metre vinyl portrait banners invite the viewer into an intimate room in which each person tells their story in a multilayered installation. Stark and lyrical black and white photographs tell of their flight, their journey to our shores and living for years in our community. Ghostlike voile portraits float without root or anchor linked to photo murals that depict urban landscapes that speak to their sense of wellbeing.
The launch will be held from 2.00 pm on Thursday 12th May at the Shepparton Art Gallery. The exhibition will continue in the gallery until Sunday 12th June. For further information contact Leanne Willis, Director, Shepparton Art Gallery – 5832 9861.
Classic Fairytale with Modern Edge
4 April 2005
Jump down the rabbit hole and head to Riverlinks for school holiday fun!
From the producers that brought us modern and exciting kids entertainment including ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’ and ‘Cinderella’, comes a brand new production of ‘Alice in Wonderland’.
The Council’s Manager of Performing Arts and Conventions, Mr Rob Robson, said the classic fairytale would feature a few new ingredients.
“As we have come to expect from Promac Productions, ‘Alice in Wonderland’ will be a presentation of the traditional story with lots of laughs and great music for children to sing-along and dance to,” Mr Robson said.
“A highlight will certainly be the performance from Brian Hannan, ‘the man with a thousand voices’, who will appear as both Tweedledee and the Mad Hatter.”
The show will also feature seasoned performers including Michelle Fitzmaurice, Alison Byrne, Phillip Wheeldon, and introduce new talent Amy Larson as Alice.
“A family fun day will be held in conjunction with the performances, with face painting and a workshop being held between the shows,” Mr Robson added.
‘Alice in Wonderland’ will be presented by Riverlinks and Promac Productions at 11.00 am and 1.00 pm on Wednesday 13th April at the Eastbank Centre.
For more information or to book tickets, please contact the Riverlinks Box Office on 5832 9511, or visit the Box Office at the Eastbank Centre, 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton.
Showbiz Legend is Hanging on to Vaudeville
3 April 2005
Take a trip back through Australian showbiz history with Reg Gorman in his new show, ‘Hanging on to Vaudeville’ at the Eastbank Centre on Tuesday 12th April.
Part of the popular Afternoon Delights series, the show will showcase some of Reg Gorman’s best loved comedy sketches, as well as great storytelling about his life in the limelight.
The Council’s Manager of Performing Arts and Conventions, Mr Rob Robson, said Reg Gorman is an energetic, physical comic with a showbiz career spanning over 50 years.
“His sketches are interspersed with stories about his life, from early childhood growing up in a country at war, to working on a dairy farm, making artificial limbs in the family business and eventually falling into his lifelong career as an entertainer,” Mr Robson said.
“Reg has worked with some amazing people and he shares some fascinating ‘behind the scenes’ stories.”
Reg Gorman will be accompanied on the piano by one of Australia’s hardest working conductors and musical directors, Kevin Hocking.
Afternoon Delights performances are presented in a flat floor setting with easy access for audience members. The ticket price includes afternoon tea and the chance to win a lucky door prize.
“This is a very special show, not be missed. Everyone should come along and let the ‘last king of vaudeville’ make you laugh out loud,” Mr Robson added.
‘Hanging on to Vaudeville’ will be presented by Riverlinks at 1.30 pm on Tuesday 12th April at the Eastbank Centre.
For more information or to book tickets, please contact the Riverlinks Box Office on 5832 9511, or visit the Box Office at the Eastbank Centre, 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton.
Riverlinks Presents a Roman Comedy of Bad Manners
28 March 2005
WestSide Performing Arts Centre will see the return of the titter, the chuckle, the belly laugh and the roar with David Williamson’s new play, ‘Flatfoot’.
Starring hilarious actor Drew Forsythe in a play that was written with him in mind, ‘Flatfoot’ follows the story of Ancient Roman playwright Titus Maccius Plautus.
The Council’s Manager of Performing Arts and Conventions, Mr Rob Robson, said Plautus had to convince his producer, Crassus Dives, that his new play will be a hit.
“Crassus has come to inspect and approve the play, and make sure that it won’t offend the Roman Censor – the trouble is, Plautus hasn’t written the play yet,”
Mr Robson said.
“So, he acts it out before his producer, with the help of his wife, making it up as he goes along.”
This epic farce sees Drew Forsythe playing out over 15 characters with hysterical and fast paced results.
The play will also feature actors John Gregg as Crassus and Tina Bursill as Plautus’ Greek wife, Cleostrata.
“This play steps away from the usual style of Australia’s foremost playwright, David Williamson and is a delightfully absurd comedy,” Mr Robson added.
‘Flatfoot’ will be presented by Riverlinks at 8.00 pm on Wednesday 6th April and Thursday 7th April at the WestSide Performing Arts Centre.
For more information or to book tickets, please contact the Riverlinks Box Office on 5832 9511, or visit the Box Office at the Eastbank Centre, 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton.
Shepparton Art Gallery Abuzz in March
23 February 2005
The Shepparton Art Gallery will be a hive of activity this March with a new exhibition opening, art classes commencing, and a coffee morning being held.
Opening from Thursday 3rd March at the gallery is ‘VCE ART 2004’, an inaugural exhibition held as part of the SheppARTon Festival. In its ninth year, the exhibition features the works of students in their final years of VCE and is a collaboration between the Shepparton Art Gallery and local art teachers.
Leanne Willis, Director of the Shepparton Art Gallery, said, “For many of these artists, it is their first time exhibiting in a gallery or even having their work on public display. The exhibition aims to encourage, recognise and value the talents of the young people of our region, and the artworks that are generated present facets of their imaginations, as well as their concerns and views of the world.”
For those who are interested in creating art, there is an opportunity to join in the upcoming after school or life drawing classes at the Shepparton Art Gallery.
“Commencing Tuesday 1st March from 4.00 to 5.00 pm and running for five weeks, the after school classes are aimed at 8 to 12 year olds. Participants will use a range of mediums to explore real world images, and then simplify, exaggerate, or distort these to create their own works of art. Bookings are required, and the total cost is $40.00 and includes materials,” Leanne said.
“The life drawing classes feature prominent artist Tim Hocking as the tutor and commence on Thursday 3rd March from 5.30 to 7.30 pm. The cost of the five sessions is $100.00, and includes materials. Bookings are essential.”
“Wednesday 2nd March is the next Friends of the Shepparton Art Gallery Coffee Morning. This month’s speaker is John Head, the Chair of the SheppARTon Festival Visual Arts Subcommittee. People are welcome to come along for tea and coffee from 10.00 am and at 10.30 am they can listen to John talk about this year’s exciting SheppARTon Festival program of events. Bookings aren’t required; however the cost is $2.00 for those who aren’t members of the gallery.”
“The ‘No Exit: A Tale of Two Cities: George Gittoes in New York and Baghdad is also still on display at the gallery until 10th April,” Ms Willis added.
All events are happening at the Shepparton Art Gallery which is located in the Eastbank Centre, 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton. Admission to the gallery is free and it is open seven days a week from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm. For more information or bookings, the gallery on 5832 9861.
SheppARTon Festival Journey Welcomed by Council
22 February 2005
The Greater Shepparton City Council is welcoming the beginning of the 2005 SheppARTon Festival, ‘The Journey’, and its program of events over the coming weeks.
The Mayor, Cr Anne McCamish, said the Council encourages local residents to support the events that will visit the region for this year’s festival.
“We wish the organisers of the SheppARTon Festival well for the coming week of preparation for what has become the leading arts and entertainment events on our calendar,” Cr McCamish said.
“The Festival has been a success in the past and this year’s program theme of ‘The Journey’ helps to celebrate the extent to which arts and culture have grown over the past nine years.”
“The SheppARTon Festival is a celebration of extraordinary things occurring in familiar places and the journey of discovery along the way, so it is fitting that this year’s theme recognises this,” Cr McCamish concluded.
The SheppARTon Festival will be officially launched at a free event to be held at Eastbank on Thursday 3rd March at 7.00 pm. The opening will include a performance by students from the Victorian College of the Arts, drinks and nibbles, and an opportunity to view four new art exhibitions. Please RSVP for catering purposes to the Riverlinks Box Office on 5832 9511 if you intend attending the Festival launch.
For further information about the SheppARTon Festival and the program of events, contact Heather Gange on 5832 9710, or access the SheppARTon Festival website at www.sheppartonfestival.net.au.
The SheppARTon Festival, in partnership with the University of Melbourne, will run from 3rd to 14th March.
Riverlinks Presents a Show that is Off the Planet
20 February 2005
Ever thought your granny was off the planet… literally?
‘Granny is an Alien’ is a children’s show from Spare Parts Puppet Theatre and will be performed at the WestSide Performing Arts Centre in Mooroopna at 11.00 am and 1.00 pm on Wednesday 23rd February.
From the company that brought us, ‘The Bugalug’s Bum Thief’, ‘Granny is an Alien’ is a light-hearted story about Alex, who becomes convinced that her granny is an alien.
Greater Shepparton City Council’s Manager of Performing Arts and Conventions, Rob Robson, said the play celebrates the differences between generations and the bonds that tie them together.
“Alex’s overactive imagination leads her on a journey of discovery that suggests that all is not what it seems,” Mr Robson said.
Throw in a once in a lifetime occurrence of a comet, gazillions of chickens and an unconventional CB radio obsessed grandma and you have a charming, heart warming, and disarming tale that links the generations.
The show features rod puppets, hand puppets and pop up style puppets.
“Author Michael Barlow performs the show solo, and says ‘Granny is an Alien’ reminds us that grandparents and their grandchildren share a unique relationship but their worlds are completely different,” Mr Robson added.
“It will be a great show for grandparents to take their grandchildren along to and is ideally suited to pre-school and junior primary age groups.”
‘Granny is an Alien’ will be performed at the WestSide Performing Arts Centre at 11.00 am and 1.00 pm on Wednesday 23rd February. The show’s duration is 45 minutes, with no interval.
For bookings or more information, please contact the Riverlinks Box Office on 5832 9511. The Box Office is open from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm on weekdays and 10.00 am to 4.00 pm on weekends.
Catering Contract Awarded for Eastbank and WestSide
3 February 2005
The Greater Shepparton City Council has awarded a contract to Hayes Catering to provide catering services for the Eastbank Centre and WestSide Performing Arts Centre events.
The Mayor, Cr Anne McCamish, said the contract was awarded after extensive consultation with the venues’ users.
“It is important that the catering services provided by our premier arts and entertainment venues are compatible with all users and enhance the atmosphere and experience for patrons,” Cr McCamish said.
The contract will comprehensively provide the following services:
• Operation of the foyer cafT/bar 7 days a week at the Eastbank Centre
• Operation of foyer bars in support of performances at both the Eastbank Centre and WestSide Performing Arts Centre
• Catering services to all ‘business hours’ functions held at the venues, ranging from meetings and seminars to major national conferences and expos
• Catering services to all functions held at the venues out of hours, ranging from including receptions, dinners, dinner dances, balls and celebrations
“Users hiring the venues for functions and conferences will have the opportunity to negotiate a catering service directly with Eastbank that will best suit their needs” added Cr McCamish.
The contract is awarded for an initial period of five years.
Riverlinks Presents First Afternoon Delight for 2005
1 February 2005
Riverlinks will present its first show in the popular ‘Afternoon Delights’ series for 2005 when Issi Dye visits the Eastbank Centre on Monday 7th February.
The Greater Shepparton City Council’s Manager for Performing Arts and Conventions, Mr Rob Robson, said the show was a tribute to the performances of Al Jolson.
“Issi Dye, a popular singer in his own right during the 60s and 70s, will present a very enjoyable afternoon of songs made famous by Al Jolson, including ‘Swanee’ and ‘Mammy’,” Mr Robson said.
“Audiences will be taken on a trip ‘Down the Mississippi’, following the story of the man recognised as one of the world’s greatest entertainers.”
The Afternoon Delights program offers an opportunity for residents to be entertained by a variety of acts throughout the year, during the day.
“As always, afternoon tea is provided and there will be lucky door prizes up for grabs. The audience will also have an opportunity to meet with Issi Dye after the performance.”
“This is a particularly important program for those patrons who find it difficult to go out during the evening, and we find it is very well received. Most of our afternoon shows reach full capacity audiences, which is wonderful,”
Mr Robson said.
`Mammy – The Very Best Songs of Al Jolson’ will be held at the Eastbank Centre on Monday 7th February at 1.30 pm. Tickets are available at the Riverlinks Box Office on 5832 9511, or in person at the Eastbank Centre, Welsford Street, Shepparton.
For more information about the show, or the 2005 Afternoon Delights program, please contact the Riverlinks Box Office.
The 2005 Riverlinks Season is Ready – Now All We Need is You!
31 January 2005
Riverlinks will officially launch its 2005 season with a special event at 7.00 pm on Tuesday 8th February at the Eastbank Centre.
Greater Shepparton’s Mayor, Cr Anne McCamish will officially launch the program, and said Greater Shepparton patrons had a great year of entertainment to look forward to this year.
“Local audiences in 2005 can expect an exciting line up of performances at Riverlinks. This year’s program aims to build on the success of previous years and really ‘lift the bar’ for audiences,” she said.
The launch will feature a presentation about the season and entertainment from a number of local performers including Bianca Fenn, Ryan Meeking, Dan Sexton and Catriona Rabl, and a special preview of this year’s Shepparton Theatre Arts Group musical, ‘West Side Story’. There will also be a feature performance by Australian guitarist, Matthew Fagan, and a presentation from special guest, Trevor Green, Managing Director of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.
Finger food and refreshments will be provided on arrival, with the presentation to begin at 7.30 pm.
Mr Rob Robson, the Council’s Manager of Performing Arts and Conventions, said the 2005 season demonstrates a commitment to bringing together a program of highest quality, interesting diversity and expanding the community’s vision and perception of theatre in Greater Shepparton.
“Our program, again, is very strong in celebration and expression of the ‘Australian voice’ and the Australian perspective on the world, but it is not parochial and it also includes work that is international in quality and viewpoint,” Mr Robson said.
“In theatre, children’s entertainment, fine music and the very popular ‘Afternoon Delights’, this season offers Greater Shepparton audiences the opportunity to see Australia’s great companies, orchestra, musicians, dancers and actors.”
Please RSVP at the Riverlinks Administration Office on 5832 9865 to attend the launch, or for further information. A brochure of the 2005 Riverlinks program will be available free of charge from the Riverlinks Box Office at Eastbank, Welsford Street.
Contemporary Aboriginal Art on Display at Gallery
24 January 2005
The best contemporary Aboriginal art from across Australia has come to the Shepparton Art Gallery in a new exhibition titled “Places that name us – RAKA Award: Contemporary Indigenous Visual Arts #3”.
Ms Leanne Willis, Shepparton Art Gallery Director, said the exhibition displays new works by thirteen outstanding contemporary Aboriginal artists, all short-listed for the prestigious Kate Challis RAKA Award.
“Indigenous artists from across Australia have presented works in a variety of styles, including bark and canvas paintings, photography, prints, drawing and sculpture,” Ms Willis said.
“What results is an exhibition of a carefully selected cross-section of the very best contemporary Aboriginal art.”
The exhibition includes contemporary expressions of traditional culture and ancestral stories from Arnhem Land and the Central Desert.
Several works explore the political and social ramifications of displacement, while others give a unique insight into the strength of contemporary Aboriginal culture in the face of anthropological and political stereotyping.
“Places That Name Us – RAKA Award: Contemporary Indigenous Visual Arts #3” will be on display at the Shepparton Art Gallery until Sunday 13th February. The exhibition is part of a tour to regional Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia.
This touring exhibition is a partnership between National Exhibition Touring Support (NETS) Victoria and The Ian Potter Museum of Art. The tour is supported by the Australia Council for the Arts, Arts Victoria and the Community Support Fund and the National Gallery of Victoria.
Steinway Attracts International Performers
12 January 2005
Greater Shepparton and its Steinway grand piano are set to become one of the main attractions of an international music, food and wine festival later this month.
The Council’s Manager Performing Arts and Conventions, Mr Rob Robson, said he had been approached by celebrity chef Stefano de Pieri to include Shepparton in the initiation of a festival involving towns along the length of the Murray and its tributaries.
“After hearing about the Steinway, Stefano and his brother Sergio, an internationally renowned musician, organist, teacher and artistic director, invited us to be involved,” Mr Robson said.
Sergio and Stefano de Pieri have brought together some of Italy’s and Australia’s finest classical musicians to perform in a number of places along the rivers, and Shepparton will feature with performances at the Eastbank Centre and Wesley Uniting Church Hall.
“Concert pianist from Venice, Dimitri Romano, will perform a recital on the Steinway at the Eastbank Centre on Friday 28th January from 8.00 pm. His program will include pieces by Mozart, Chopin, Rossini, Faure and Strauss.”
“Sergio de Pieri will perform on the beautiful pipe organ at Wesley Uniting Church Hall in Maude Street, Shepparton from 7.30 pm on Saturday 30th January. He will be accompanied by vocalists Rafaella Benori and Domenico Menini in a concert titled ‘Sacred Music from the Romantic Period’, featuring works by Gounod, Verdi, Schumann, Rossini, Brahms and Mozart.”
“He will also perform an original piece dedicated to the ‘Grande Fiume Murray’, composed by de Pieri himself,” Mr Robson added.
“It would be great if Greater Shepparton could be part of this major festival initiative in the future, and it fits very well with other tourist and cultural development opportunities,” Mr Robson concluded.
For more information or to book tickets, please contact the Riverlinks Box Office on 5832 9511, or visit the Eastbank Centre in Welsford Street, Shepparton.
Shepparton Art Gallery Receives Special Grant
4 January 2005
The Shepparton Art Gallery has received a funding boost with a Museums Australia (Victoria) Building Better Regional Museums grant of $3,623.00.
The Shepparton Art Gallery has received a funding boost with a Museums Australia (Victoria) Building Better Regional Museums grant of $3,623.00.
Ms Leanne Willis, Shepparton Art Gallery Director, said the grant will benefit the gallery by enabling the digitisation of the gallery’s collection, making public enquiries easier to answer and collection management more efficient.
“To assist with this project, the gallery has also arranged a series of internships with students who are currently completing a Master of Art Curatorship from Melbourne University,” Ms Willis said.
“Funding for these kinds of small projects can be hard to find and raising the funds in other ways can take gallery personnel away from more hands-on work behind the scenes, so it is very exciting to have obtained these funds.”
The 2004 Building Better Regional Museums (BBRM) grants give financial assistance to regional museums and galleries for small projects that draw on recognised museum standards. BBRM is an initiative of Museums Australia (Victoria) funded through the Arts Victoria Regional Arts Infrastructure Fund.
“BBRM 2004 provides assistance to regional galleries in meeting immediate costs for items such as conservation materials, improved storage and display facilities, environmental control measures and collection management tools and equipment.”
Participation in the Museums Accreditation Program (MAP) has enabled the Shepparton Art Gallery to better identify their own needs and more easily meet the requirements to be invited to apply for BBRM funding.
MAP is a program that supports Victorian museums in preserving and presenting our unique and varied cultural heritage. The Shepparton Art Gallery has been MAP Accredited since 1998.
Admission to Shepparton Art Gallery is free and it is open seven days a week from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm. The gallery is located in the Eastbank Centre,
70 Welsford Street, Shepparton, phone 5832 9861.
The Shepparton Art Gallery is supported by the Victorian Government through Arts Victoria and the Community Support Fund, and through the Visual Arts and Craft Strategy, an initiative of the Australian, State and Territory Governments
Riverlinks Brings Some Summer Fun to the School Holidays
4 January 2005
Please note that the Riverlinks’ Family Fun Days which were to be held on Wednesday 12th January and Thursday 13th January have had to be cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.
Riverlinks and the Eastbank Centre apologise for any incovenience.
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Youngsters in Greater Shepparton are being treated to some free family fun at the region’s premier entertainment venue, the Eastbank Centre.
Greater Shepparton City Council’s Manager of Performing Arts and Conventions, Rob Robson, said Riverlinks would hold free family fun days on Wednesday 12th January and Thursday 13th January.
“Families can look forward to a great range of activities, beginning at
11.00 am,” Mr Robson said.
“The school holiday entertainment will include special performances of a pirate show and a clown show each day at 11.00 am and 2.00 pm.”
“There will also be face painting from Sprytes Face Painting from 12.00 to 2.00 pm in the Eastbank function rooms.”
“Kids will be able to join in with games and songs, all the activities are very interactive,” Mr Robson added.
“The Eastbank CafT will be open from 9.00 am serving special holiday treats for the kids, and coffees for the mums and dads.”
“Riverlinks prides itself on catering to families at its entertainment venues, and we’re very excited to present these free performances and activities for the families who continue to support us,” Mr Robson concluded.
For more information, please contact the Riverlinks Box Office on 5832 9511. The Box Office is open from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm on weekdays and 10.00 am to 4.00 pm on weekends.