Backstage pass for budding thespians

SIXTEEN young budding actors received a glimpse into the dynamic and creative world of Hobart theatre when they shared in a private tour of the Theatre Royal recently.
Organised by Colony 47 and the Friends of the Theatre Royal, the tour included an interactive workshop led by Tasmanian performers John X and Anna Kidd and a “meet and greet” with the cast of the high-energy production “Controlled Falling Project”.
Participants were also treated to a full performance of the show.
Colony 47 chief executive officer Therese Taylor said she was truly grateful to the Friends of the Theatre Royal for their generosity in accommodating the boys and girls, who are engaged in Colony 47’s Youth Connections program.
Youth Connections gives 11-17 year olds the support to identify and overcome barriers to their participation in education.
“There are a number of barriers that some young people perceive when thinking about the theatre,” Ms Taylor said.
“We are thrilled to be able to demystify the theatre for these young people by offering them this fun insight into the world of theatre.”
When asked what they learned from the experience, several students commented:
“The theatre can be exciting.”
“It is live and you can be close to the stage.”
“There is a lot happening behind the stage to make a show work.”
“There are lots of different jobs in the theatre.”