Great Scot September 2019 Great Scot 157_September 2019_ONLINE | Page 42

Drama
A POETIC
CELEBRATION
OF OUR
CONNECTION
TO THE BEACH
Beach: a Theatrical Fantasia, an Australian play by Timothy Daly,
was the 2019 Year 9 and 10 Play. The play explores the special affinity
Australians have with the ocean; how our cities hug the coastline,
and how beaches bring back childhood memories. But beaches can
also harbour our greatest fears. The play is a poetic celebration of our
connection to the beach over the past 150 years.
At my audition for the play, I could not have foretold the impact
this production would have on me. It seemed like the beginning of
just another play, like those I had been part of last year and the year
before. But this time I had the opportunity of playing a lead role. I
was both elated and terrified, but play rehearsal quickly became the
highlight of my week. The production helped me grow as a performer,
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Great Scot Number 157 – September 2019
established new friendships and strengthened existing ones.
This year’s 9/10 Play was brought to life by our talented director,
Ms Christensen, and our cast and crew from Scotch and PLC.
After three months and uncountable hours of rehearsal, production
week began. It was all a wild fusion of pleasure, stress and pumping
adrenaline which all wrapped up spectacularly on the Geoffrey
McComas Theatre stage on the nights of 23 to 25 May. I speak for
myself and for all the cast and crew – this has been an experience
to remember and cherish.
BEN DALEY – YEAR 10