After 302 dark days, the Lighthouse Theatre is set to reopen to a (CovidSafe) bumper year of entertainment.
"2020 was a very hard year for the performing arts, so it's very rewarding and exciting to be able to begin hosting performances again", said Xavier Dannock, Service Manager Lighthouse Theatre.
Patrons can return with the knowledge that for the past few months, the venue has been preparing to open in a CovidSafe way, with the focus on putting patrons' safety first. This includes reduced capacity, safe queuing, CovidSafe ticketing policies and hand sanitizer throughout the venue. "Our CovidSafe plan is comprehensive, but designed to ensure all our patrons, performers, staff and volunteers are safe when attending the theatre, or where things need to change at the last minute", Mr Dannock said.
Starting off the year on Sunday 31st January, The Kazoo's, one of Australia's most acclaimed children's acts, have been touring nationally and internationally since 2008. This production was initially directed by the late TV and stage actress Betty Bobbitt, best known for her role as Judy Bryant in TV hit Prisoner. An interactive show that promises fun and adventure as Dr Silly (think Jim Carey for preschoolers) and Tulip perform a comedy musical aimed at the whole family.
"Traditionally January is a busy month for us with Holiday Actors' annual production. However this year it looks a little different, with our first show back being 'The Kazoo's' on the 31st of January as a special end of holiday treat for the whole family to attend!" Mr Dannock said.
Then we move to music and start with a tribute to The Traveling Wilburys on Friday 5 February, by Australians own superstars including band leader James Black - famous for his time at the helm of the Rockwiz Orchestra, Lindsay Field, Sam See, Glyn Mason, Angus Burchall and Paul Cartwright. With their knockout harmonies and guitar work, they create a tribute honoring the maestro's superb sounds and reverbs that forever changed music's direction as we know it.
"The Traveling Wilburys were a group like no other, and their music has held its incredible popularity for decades after they first performed", Mr Dannock said.
But the fun doesn't stop there with Hard Quiz host and Gold Logie winner Tom Gleeson returning to Warrnambool with his show 'Lighten Up' to round out the trio of re-opening performances.
"Having Tom Gleeson, Australia's self-proclaimed carry-over Gold Logie winner come to Warrnambool is sure to provide a much needed laugh to start off 2021 in a positive way", Mr Dannock said.
There are plenty more shows already lined up and on sale now including The Smith Street Band to perform 'Unplugged', in one of only two regional shows as well as ARIA Hall of Fame Inductee Archie Roach returning to the stage with his intimate show 'Tell Me Why' - a stunning account of resilience, the strength of spirit and a great love story. 2021 will also see performers such as John Williamson, Opera Australia, Taylor Henderson, Victorian State Ballet and many more shows grace our stage.
"It's set to be a great year and we are excited to be a part of the recovery from Covid19. For every performance people see, they help create a stronger, and more resilient arts community, so therefore I encourage you to book your seats now so you don't miss out", Mr Dannock said.
