By Casey Neill
Aspiring storytellers and young people seeking confidence can tap into a free program in Dandenong.
Last year Melbourne Playback Theatre Company received funding from Creative Victoria to run SeaACT with help from the City of Greater Dandenong, Drum Theatre, the Emerging Writer’s Festival and Cultural Fund Copyright.
In term one, participants worked with a professional script writer and shared their stories of living in the municipality.
In term two they’ll rehearse and perform the play they wrote as part of the Emerging Writer’s Festival and Refugee Week.
“This is very exciting opportunity for young people who love performing arts, storytelling or would like to build their confidence,” actress and Melbourne Playback community development officer Diana Nguyen said.
“We would like as many young people to know about this fantastic program that happens every Thursday afternoon from 4pm to 6pm.”
SeaACT is open to 12 to 25 year olds.
The Journal spoke to SeaACT success story Hushum Juma, from Hampton Park, in May last year.
“We enjoyed our time at the Drum. Every time we passed by the building we wondered what happened inside,” he said.
“SeaACT gave use the opportunity to come in.
“It’s about sharing stories as a group. We creatively listen and perform stories from the audience or stories from each other while we’re rehearsing.
“We have a laugh about it and enjoy ourselves. It’s just a very creative outlet.”
Hushum’s participation in SeaACT confirmed his desire to make acting his career, gave him the confidence to pursue it, and led to a scholarship with Melbourne Playback Theatre Company.
Contact info@diananguyen.com.au for more information about getting involved.
