Show goes on: Local production hits stage after Covid delay

While the theatre is nothing new for the playwright who has been in the industry since he was just 13, his upcoming show is.

CLASS ACT: Preparing for opening night of play Bananas is playwright Dave Searston and actor Renee Crotty. The play starts at the Empire Theatre later this month. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Toowoomba playwright Dave Searston knows the world of theatre well after he has been bringing productions to the local and international stage for just shy of 20 years.

And while executing a production is nothing new for the experienced performer, his upcoming show is.

“Bananas is a play about a play that goes wrong and it’s a comedy,” Mr Searston said.

“Coming up with the concept was a gradual process and it’s mostly based on stories actors and playwrighters have told me about their experiences.”

The plot follows Harper Williams – a playwright played by Mr Searston who after a successful career has been forced to work in amateur theatre again much to his dissatisfaction.

CLASS ACT: Preparing for opening night of play Bananas is playwright Dave Searston and actor Renee Crotty. The play starts at the Empire Theatre later this month. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Playing alongside Mr Searston and seven other cast members is Renee Crotty who will be hitting the stage for the first time and stepping into the role of Victoria Thompson.

“I always wanted to give acting a shot but was too shy to put myself out there and Dave offered me the role so I just went for it,” Ms Crotty said.

“My character is the complete opposite of who I am but what’s funny is we are both going through the same experience – we’re both auditioning for a play to build confidence.”

Originally set to hit the stage last year, Bananas was cancelled due to Covid-19.

The variety show will see one-man show Hell Yeah by Nick Joy follow.

Bananas and Hell Yeah will be playing at the studio theatre of Empire Theatre from June 23 to 25.

Both plays are rated M, run for 60 minutes each and are part of the Homegrown Independents Program.

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased by clicking here.