Bairnsdale Production Line Theatre Company’s upcoming musical Come From Away, opens at The Forge Theatre in less than two weeks, on Friday, May 2.
This is the story of that fateful day almost 25 years ago, when the tragic events of September 11 2001 rocked the world.
It’s a story of resilience in the face of extraordinary circumstances. Extraordinary circumstances that can also bring people together from the most diverse of backgrounds.
Two of those stories explored in Come From Away are that of Bob, a New Yorker who never trusts anyone with his wallet, and Hannah, also from New York, whose son is a firefighter, missing in the World Trade Centre emergency.
Played by Jaydeep Patal and Shivani Ashley, respectively, both are brand new to Production Line and to The Forge Theatre.
Originally from India, Jaydeep had been based in Melbourne for more than 18 years when he decided a tree change to Bairnsdale was in order last year.
While Jay has worn many hats over the years, including accountant and pest controller, he currently works in horticulture.
But he never expected to add ‘actor’ to
that list.
“The director, Pete Martignoles asked me one day if I could sing and if I’d like to be in a theatre production,” Jaydeep said.
“I was taken aback and hesitant, but I felt flattered. I shared that I had done a bit of singing in my youth and had been on stage a few times, though I once forgot the lyrics and my friends took the opportunity to tease me, which left me nervous about performing again.
“So I went to a rehearsal to see what it was all about and saw a wonderful group of people practicing together.”
Admitting it was daunting starting behind the rest of the cast, Jaydeep said the support he has received from everyone has been invaluable and the local talent he’s on stage with is inspiring.
“I instantly felt a sense of warmth and
the entire crew welcomed me with cheers,
and I realised that since moving from Melbourne, I hadn’t had the chance to engage with a
community like this in my new town,” Jaydeep said.
Shivani also came from Melbourne, having studied a Bachelor of Arts and Education at Monash University.
She recently relocated to Bairnsdale and teaches psychology and science at Bairnsdale Secondary College.
A lifelong musician, Shivani grew up playing piano and singing in choirs.
Although she had taken a step back from performing since high school in 2019, her passion was reignited through performing at DUCK! comedy show in Brunswick and, more recently, during the Valentine’s concert at St Mary’s Bairnsdale.
“Come From Away feels like the
perfect show to step into musical theatre,” Shivani said.
“As a Sri Lankan woman who’s just moved to a rural Australian town, the story’s message about community, compassion, and embracing people regardless of race, sexuality, or religion resonates deeply with me.
“Portraying a woman of colour and seeing diversity represented on stage in Bairnsdale is a powerful experience. I’m so proud to be part of it.”
Come From Away will open on Friday, May 2, for a total of 10 performances over three weekends, concluding on Sunday, May 18.
More information can be found on the Production Line website and Facebook page, as well as the Forge Theatre website.
