THE president and cast of Lighten Up Theatre held their inaugural Mother’s Day high tea fundraiser at Newhaven Hall on Saturday, May 11 in support of the upcoming show Mystery on the Orient Express.
With a passion for bringing joy and laughter to the community through the arts, founder of Lighten Up Theatre Trish Oostendarp put out expressions of interest for the theatre group last year and was overwhelmed by the response.
The cast will present their orient express-themed production, providing a comedic twist featuring Sherlock Holmes and Inspector Gadget trying to solve a theft case – a storyline with high level audience interaction and adult humour at the Phillip Island Senior Citizens Club from July 26.
“The performance has zany characters – you’ll never know what’s going to happen,” said Trish. Set as a cabaret – there will be plenty of audience interaction, and fast comedy.
“I have directed this performance twice before, but the first with this cast under ‘Lighten Up Theatre’. The show is always well received, and it will showcase a passion of performing.”
Guests at the high tea were welcomed with champagne, before indulging in homemade sweets and sandwiches, whilst being entertained by Michael Sorensen on guitar and Sharon Buxton on vocals.
Trish expressed her excitement and awe at the successful fundraising event. Showing her gratitude towards the community for their support, including the local businesses who generously donated to the fundraising raffle.
“It was a sold-out event with 62 attendees, and we hope to run it again next year,” said Trish.
The Mystery on the Orient Express will perform at the Phillip Island Senior Citizens Club on July 26 and 27 at 8pm, a matinee on July 28 at 2pm. Followed by final shows on August 2, and August 3 at 8pm. Tickets on sale soon.
