Meg McPhail plays Grandma in Ringing the Changes at Repertory Theatre.
PICTURE / ASHLEIGH MORRIS
I have a vivid memory of Meg McPhail dancing in the wings of the Opera House during the Buddy Holly Show, pure enjoyment across her face.
One of the chorus girls, she was wearing one of their pretty taffeta frocks, full skirted and full of movement. This unofficial, spontaneous performance delightful
to watch.
Now Meg is in the middle of rehearsals at Repertory Theatre, playing the role of Grandma in Ringing the Changes.
"I'm busy working and doing my house maintenance but I was in a bit of a rut so I auditioned for a part in the play as theatre is something I love being involved in," she says. "My first play was many years ago when my children were young. It was The Emperor's New Clothes, written by Ken Pearson."
She doesn't remember all the plays she's been in since then but she does remember being in Fundraisers, written by Sheryl Amos and being in Dragula with David Charteris and Mark Rayner.
"My all-time favourite part was in Murder at Rutherford House when I played the part of Hermione who was really crazy, totally off the wall. It's fun playing crazy parts like that," Meg says.
"Grandma isn't crazy. She's pretty savvy. She knows what's going on whereas the straight-laced parents seem to be quite gullible. Grandma enjoys her gin, doesn't care what others think of her but is a bit sneaky. She gets Richard, the youngest child in the family (and her favourite) to do things behind his father's back."
Meg's enjoying being back at Repertory and being part of the theatre family again. Ringing the Changes, opening in early July, promises to be a fun family comedy.
Production dates/times: 7.30pm on July 5, 6, 7, 12, 13 and 14 with a 2pm matinee on Sunday, July 8.
