New talent shines in Narrogin Repertory Club’s two one-act comedy performances at Thornton Theatre

New talent took to the stage for the first time at the weekend as the Narrogin Repertory Club put on two successful one-act comedy plays at the Thornton Theatre.

Drawing about 120 audience members for its opening run over Friday, Saturday and Sunday, both Flushed Again by Ron Nicol and John Passadino’s A Double Date with Uncle Martin, were audience successes.

Local doctor Ilario Da Silva directed Flushed Again and brought Meg to life in drag beside his co-stars Joan Armstrong in lead role Jan, and Sharna Odlin as Tara.

The sequel to Flushed, which was performed by the NRC last September and October, Flushed Again sees the three women trapped in the ladies bathroom during Jan’s wedding reception.

With no phone and no escape, chaos reigns as friends feud, nails break and outfit mishaps continue.

Following the first one-act performance was A Double Date with Uncle Martin, directed by Louise Cameron.

The second play invited three fresh faces to the stage: Jacinta Thornton, Ivan Khoroniak and Maria Martynjuk.

Others in the cast included Trevor Williams, who portrayed a mafia mobster, and Dave Pettit as main character Chris, who accidentally planned two dates with two girls on the same night and same restaurant, where he questions if both are related to the famous Martin Scorsese.

Thornton, Martynjuk and Khoroniak all said they were grateful for the experience and that it boosted their own self-confidence and closeness to the community.

“Hearing the laughter and joy that arises during the production makes it all worthwhile,” Thornton said.

“Being among brilliant actors and directors is a huge benefit, learning from their experiences helped me become more confident in myself.

“As they say, all great actors come from even greater communities.”

Cameron said the performances were brilliant.

“They were fantastic, the audiences laughed, brilliant, they were so good,” she said.

“The three new people were outstanding, they listened to direction, they came up with their own ideas, they made the effort all the time and never missed a rehearsal.

“We all worked as a team, super friendly just a brilliant group.”

Cameron said non-stop laughter roared from the crowd across all three nights.

Audience members took to Facebook to share their feedback, with Sheldon Paice writing that she “went Saturday night, well worth it and keep supporting our local theatre”, while Judy Draper commented: “This act was well done, well acted and funny. Recommended viewing and welcome to the new faces.”

Commentors included original playwright Ron Nicol who wished everyone “chookas” and to “have a great time”.

Tickets are still available for Flushed Again and A Double Date with Uncle Martin for October 10 and 11 performances at www.trybooking.com/events.