Kerang to host John Wood in Carpe Diem production
Published on 27 March 2017
Kerang to host John Wood in Carpe Diem production
MEDIA RELEASE
A play starring Logie winner and ex-Blue Heelers star John Wood is coming to Kerang!
The play, titled ‘Carpe Diem’, is a comedy with a serious message focusing on highlighting mental health and the importance of community. Written by playwright Megan Rigoni, the play was first inspired by the experiences of people she knew.
The performance is free thanks to the Gannawarra Local Agency Meeting (GLAM) partnership and will show in the Kerang Memorial Hall on 1 April from 7.00pm.
Mayor Brian Gibson says this play is a contemporary portrayal of Australian males and addresses important issues.
“Showing this play is just one way to help people think differently about mental health and seeking assistance. A comedy is a good place to start; we can take a look at ourselves and have a laugh while we’re at it. That’s the Australian way isn’t it?”
Set in a fictional town in inland Australia, Carpe Diem portrays the friendship of Nev, a hard working farmer, and John his stock agent friend. Both, have been impacted by the long running drought, and each suffers their own personal crisis.
Carpe Diem is a didactic comedy that delivers the mental health message in a way that is entertaining, immediate and highly relevant. It stresses the importance of mate-ship and professional care in times of crises.
“Surprisingly this play is a comedy. We’ve all known hardship in some form, but how do we find support in our community when we need to?” Mayor Brian Gibson questions.
Lead actor John Wood says, it’s a very Australian thing to feel that it’s none of our business and that someone knows what they’re doing.
“But men need to ask the questions and not ignore their apparent depression or inner pain.”
Carpe Diem will be appearing in Kerang on Saturday 1 April at the Kerang Memorial Hall. Doors open at 7.00pm for a 7.30pm start. The play will be followed by a Q&A where the audience can meet the actors over supper.
This free event is proudly funded by Gannawarra Shire Council, Northern District Community Health Services, Victoria Police, Mallee District Aboriginal Services, Southern Mallee Primary Care Partnership, Kerang District Health, Cohuna District Hospital and North West Ag Services.
For more information please contact Council on 5450 9333 or visit council’s website
www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au
…ENDS…
Date: 24 March 2017
Media contact: Katrina Thorne T. 03 5450 9333 M. 0409 616 627