A new production by Castlemaine Theatre Company threatens to reveal the hidden secrets of people living in small towns, including those in our region.
Under Milk Wood is set in Wales, and Dylan Thomas finished writing it in 1953, but it explores themes that will still resonate with people in Newstead, Guildford and Chewton alike.
“We’re finding so many ways to relate to these small-town characters,” director Michelle Dorian says.
“They have local gathering places – it might be the town pump rather than a café – and they know each other’s business.”
CTC’s 2023 production of Under Milk Wood is unusual in that it brings the words, which are best known as a radio play, to life on the stage. “This play is more like poetry than a straight narrative piece; it shows the inner lives of the characters,” Michelle says. “I wanted to work with a team to try and create the dreamy mood in a theatrical way. Everyone is bringing incredible ideas.”
The production is certainly a community effort, with various contributors helping to realise the vision.
“Our set-designer, Roddy Ramos, ran with the dream idea in an unexpected way,” Michelle says.
“And we have various creative people gathering costumes and making props that really feed the imagination of audiences.”
Twenty-four hours in the life of a small town… a poetic, lilting and humorous portrayal of the dreams, hopes and regrets of a seaside community. Don’t miss this Castlemaine version of Under Milk Wood, you may see glimpses of your neighbours on stage!
CTC’s production of Under Milk Wood, By Dylan Thomas plays October 26 to November 5 at the Phee Broadway Theatre, Mechanics Lane, Castlemaine.
Thursday, Friday, Saturday at 7.30pm. Sunday Matinee at 2pm.
Tickets at castlemainetheatrecompany.com or at the door, $29/$25/$18.
Drinks and snacks will be available at bar prices half an hour before. Cash or card accepted.
