Guy Pearce, Sophia Katos, Peter Coleman-Wright – they’re just some of the stars who learned their craft with GSODA Junior Players. JOHN VAN KLAVEREN spoke to troupe leader Debbie Fraser during its 50th anniversary celebrations.
Even though GSODA’s beginnings are now part of Geelong arts history, they are a living, breathing connection between the past and present.
Debbie Fraser doesn’t often get the chance to stop and look back, being as hands-on with Geelong Society of Dramatic Arts’ Junior Players as she ever was.
But the occasion of the organisation’s 50th anniversary celebration in August was one such opportunity.
The 50th anniversary bash saw the cream of Geelong performers come together to pay homage to the theatre company that gave them their start.
Past GSODA names like Guy Pearce, Peter Coleman-Wright, Martin Croft, Kate Bader, Gail and Cindy Lee, Shane Lee, Shandelle Cooke, Angie Hilton, Sam Cocking, Tim and Noni McCallum, Jackson Thomas, Andre Jewson and Sophia Katos have become familiar names.
“We had people flying in from England, Japan, Saudia Arabia. The kids have all grown up and moved on, but they’re all coming back. There’s such a connection for so many of them,” Debbie reflects.
“I don’t take it for granted but I’m so hands on I don’t get the chance to stop and enjoy what they’re doing. When I do stop and look around it’s amazing.”
Connections play a big part in Debbie’s view of the role GSODA Junior Players has played in developing a deep pool of acting, singing and dancing talent in Geelong.
“Part of that is being taught by the people who started it and I just want to continue that. It’s so special, so unique; we can’t find anything else like it.
“If you were only there one year or five you never forget that time and whatever you’ve learned you take away with you, whatever walk of life you go into.”
Read more in the Geelong Coast Magazine – in newsagents now.
