House Play Festival Programme 2023

Welcome It is that time of year again! What better way to begin House Plays Festival than to give you a window into the creative process of 2023. Term 4, 2022. Directors were selected and after a strong week of auditions, casts were finalised. House Plays auditions earnt each participant a Spirit point. To all who bravely stepped into the audition room, our directors thank you! Your talent and passion made their final decisions so very difficult. Day 1, Term 1, 2023. The full company of 108 divided into rehearsal spaces, completed a table read and began the process of staging a play in 4 weeks. No time is wasted. With directors scouring over the schedules of their large casts, finding every possible moment to block a scene, run transitions and develop character. Week 2 is a busy week of deadlines; costume, set and prop requirements, and (most importantly) the completed stage action. Week 3 focuses on characterisation, with directors opting to embrace smaller cast rehearsals as our Year 7’s enjoy camp. Week 3 culminates in a technical rehearsal, where the directors collaborate with Mr Cash and members of the technical services crew, to design their sound, lighting and visual effects. Week 4 begins with dress rehearsals, where the show runs for the first time. The directors focus on honing acting skills, navigating set transitions, finalising staff cameo appearances, and learn the importance of returning props to their allocated location. Gaffer tape, corflute, glitter foam and textured wallpaper magically transform the set. The 5 plays do not get the luxury of multiple runs of show prior to opening night. Our actors and directors are resilient and flexible, constantly using critical and creative thinking skills to solve problems and refine their productions. For our company, it is a labour of love, and they are fiercely proud of their work. House Plays Festival truly focuses on the journey. Sure, awards and accolades are nice for a moment, but the strong bonds that form between each cast member are what truly count. The moments of play that lead to unexpected magic when developing a scene. The uncontrollable laughter. The hug when you are having a rough day. A listening ear. Sharing a creative thought. These are the memories that matter. The true Spirit of the festival. On behalf of the House Plays Festival directors, actors, and technical crew, we would like to sincerely thank the families of all participants for supporting the festival. Without your commitment, the festival could not run. We extend our thanks to all staff for their assistance, and invite you, our wonderful audience, to sit back and enjoy the show.

Anna D’Arcy

Josephine Flynn

Assistant Head of Performing Arts

Theatre Manager