Wonthaggi Theatrical Group unveils packed 2027 season
The Wonthaggi Theatrical Group (WTG) hosted its highly anticipated community Open Day and Season ’27 launch over the weekend with an open rehearsal of the upcoming September production of the dark musical comedy Ride The Cyclone.
THE local arts scene burst into life this weekend as the Wonthaggi Theatrical Group (WTG) hosted its highly anticipated community Open Day and Season ’27 launch.
January 2027 kicks off with the WTG production of Disney's Newsies JR. a 60-minute adaptation of the 2012 Broadway musical and 1992 film. Set in turn-of-the-century New York City it follows charismatic newsboy Jack Kelly as he rallies fellow newspaper sellers to strike against unfair publishing prices. A celebration of youth not to be missed celebrating the power of unity and standing up for newsboy justice.
May 2027 brings Monty Python's Spamalot a riotous musical comedy adapted from the iconic film Monty Python and the Holy Grail. The show irreverently parodies King Arthur and his knights on their quest for the Holy Grail, blending absurd humour, showgirls, killer rabbits, and the famous anthem "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life".
The striking original Australian musical Lady of the Swamp comes to the stage in July, detailing the turbulent lives of the wealthy Clement sisters. It explores their tragic descent from opulence into isolation in Gippsland, culminating in the unsolved 1952 disappearance of Margaret Clement that captivated the nation.
Another highlight of an entertainment packed year for WTG will be Jesus Christ Superstar in Concert in September. Featuring the iconic music from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's legendary rock opera, this stripped-down yet emotionally intense vocal showcase will focus on the final weeks of Jesus's life through the perspective of Judas Iscariot, driven by iconic, high-energy modern rock numbers and soulful melodies.
Open Day in The Shed at the State Coal Mine drew an enthusiastic crowd of theatre goers eager for a backstage look at local theatre. Attendees were treated to guided tours, set construction previews, and exclusive access to a rehearsal.
A sneak peek into the upcoming September production of the dark comedy Ride The Cyclone was a clear highlight as the audience stepped into the rehearsal space to hear the powerhouse vocals of the cast under directors Karen Milkins Hendry and Linda Hamilton.
Vocal Director Elly Poletti and Band Director Nick Carver have shaped a phenomenal musical experience. Key cast members shine, including Jayde Trappett as Jane Doe, Lachie Trappett as Mischa Bachinski, Jade Dalton as Ocean O'Connell, and Rafal Pyka as Ricky Potts.
The story follows six Canadian chamber choir teenagers stranded in a bizarre limbo after a fatal roller coaster accident. A mechanical fortune-teller forces them into a surreal singing competition to win a second chance at life.
The fortune-teller, The Amazing Karnak, is played by local crowd favourite Jay Nelson.
The production delivers a fast-paced, 90-minute show blending comedy, tragedy, and deep emotional drama. Visitors on Sunday also witnessed an open rehearsal of Greetings, another highly anticipated piece on the group's current calendar.
Building on Sunday's momentum, WTG is keeping the doors open for the community.
Aspiring actors can sign up for monologue coaching sessions and local residents can volunteer for backstage roles, sewing teams, front-of-house greeting, and marketing committees.
WTG continues to cement its role as a vital cultural hub, offering accessible arts experiences and fostering local talent. The Open Day helped ensure that the historic Shed remains a vibrant hub for regional creativity fostering deep artistic connections across the local community for generations to come.
