Rehearsals are in full swing for Bairnsdale Production Line Theatre Company’s October season of The Heartbreak Choir, and the cast are well and truly getting into character.
This uniquely Australian play by Aidan Fennessy opens at The Forge Theatre on Friday, October 17, for a two-weekend run closing with a Sunday matinee on October 26.
Set in a small-town community hall, The Heartbreak Choir tells the story of a group of plucky locals who come together to sing after life delivers them heartbreak.
What begins as a small breakaway choir, quickly becomes a lifeline, as laughter, music, and unlikely friendships mend old wounds.
One of those characters is Aseni, a heavily pregnant newcomer who works in the local deli, but is a doctor in her home country of Zimbabwe. Local high school drama teacher, Simran Kaur is relishing the opportunity to step into the role complete with baby bump.
“It’s a lot of fun to fully immerse myself in embodying a different character through the simple act of putting on a fake pregnant stomach. Aseni’s story is representative of a large group of Australians, coming to this country in search of a better life for future generations, and her character shows real strength and determination, which I really admire,” Simran said.
Simran also shared how much she’s enjoying the process of working on such a heartfelt play.
“I love the way simplicity and complexity co-exist in this story. There is a character that everyone will relate to, a moment where everyone will laugh, and maybe even a moment where they’ll shed a tear. It’s about community and finding your people, and how that can get you through anything,”
Simran said.
As is tradition for Production Line’s October season, opening night profits will be donated to a local charity.
This year’s recipient is the well-deserving Bairnsdale Neighbourhood House.
The Heartbreak Choir is on at The Forge Theatre from Friday, October 17, until Sunday, October 26.
Early bird tickets are available until September 19 and further information can be found on the Production Line website, Facebook page, and at The Forge Theatre box office.
