Amdram Wanganui double bill will demonstrate actors' versatility

Cast members Dee Brough and David Mosen will perform in two plays at Amdram Wanganui Fringed production this week. Photo / Arden Denfu

Whanganui theatre-goers can look forward to an exciting experience this week with the opening of Amdram Wanganui's Fringed on Thursday night.

Director Mel Hawkins says the same cast will perform two one-act plays on each of the three nights.

"They are very different plays - a comedy and a fictional drama about a high school shooting.

"I am directing Bake Sale the comedy, and Phil Portland is directing Bang, Bang, You're Dead."

Hawkins says there are some seasoned actors in the cast who will get to show their versatility in the two plays.

"There are also a few newcomers and some of our young Amdram stars."

Bang Bang, You're Dead by William Mastrosimone is based on school shootings in Oregon in 1998 and was written the following year.

Although it is an American play, Hawkins hinted that there may be a bit of a local spin in the Amdram delivery.

Bake Sale by Jennifer Reichert is a comedy loaded with euphemisms about gender politics and Hawkins said the contrast between the two plays will provide the audience with some great theatre moments.

Both she and Portland were keen to bring some fringe theatre to Whanganui and Hawkins said these two plays fit the bill.

The cast has had just over four weeks to rehearse since auditions. There will be no sets, just a stage for the actors to work with and it will be all about the performances.

"If you are looking for a diverse, exciting and entertaining evening you will find it with Fringed," says Hawkins.

Fringed: Amdram Wanganui, 171 Guyton St, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7.30pm. Tickets $18-$20. Book at Royal Wanganui Opera House or online at royaloperahouse.co.nz Bar facilities and platters available for purchase. Some content may offend.