Behind the scenes: Tara Vagg and Steven Georgiadis rehearse Over the Moon.
By Erin Pearson
GEELONG Repertory Theatre has the answer for anyone who has ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of a live show, according to director Scott Beaton.
The theatre troupe’s latest show, Over the Moon, looked at the nerves, tears, tantrums and tirades behind closed curtains, Beaton said.
He described the show, by American comedy writer Ken Ludwig, as set in the 1950s to follow the lives of two washed-up actors from the 1920s.
“It’s around the misunderstandings and crazy things that go on behind live theatre,” Beaton said.
“The characters all want to go and work with the director on his new movie but then in come mistaken identities and old-fashioned humor in a slightly more fresh way.
“People are getting drunk and not able to make it on stage, others are having affairs, it’s all over the place. If you’ve ever wondered what goes on back stage, now is your opportunity.”
Beaton said most farces were usually from Britain, so Over the Moon’s American origins were extra special.
“This comedy is a little more sophisticated,” he explained.
“There’s going to be entertainment in the foyer as well and music on the side to offer something for everyone.”
Beaton said cast members were already tapping into their own backstage encounters to add to the script.
“So far the experiences we’ve had have had us rolling in the isles laughing,” he laughed.
“That’s something you don’t expect so early on but we’re all having an absolute ball putting this together. Anyone who’s ever seen or been in a show live is going to relate to some of that for sure.
“We’ve found that quite a joyous thing.”
Geelong West’s Woodbin Theatre will host Over the Moon from November 18 to December 3. Bookings are available through Geelong Peforming Arts Centre.
