"This month's pick Gig"

Audiences Celebrate with
Strauss the "Waltz King"

Celebrating their tenth anniversary this year, the Maleny Singers have filled a gap in the musical theatre landscape on the Sunshine Coast since 2003. They have regularly brought to the stage classical operettas by such renowned composers as Gilbert and Sullivan, Franz Lehár and Offenbach.

Artistic Director and Conductor for the Maleny Singers, Margaret Taylor said, “What better way for our audiences to celebrate with us than through Johann Strauss’ most famous and hilarious operetta, Die Fledermaus (The Bat).”

Things are not as they seem in the opulent setting of Prince Orlofsky’s ballroom, beginning with the mysterious 'Hungarian Countess', who enters wearing a mask. Only the host and Dr Falke know who’s really who, as Dr Falke sets out to settle an old score.

The composer, Johann Strauss — affectionately known as 'The Waltz King' — brings this farce to life with wonderful wit and melodies such as ‘The laughing song’, that are so well known by young and old.

“We are so fortunate to also attract some of themost amazing orchestral talent to our productions, with members from The Sunshine Coast Symphony Orchestra, The Pacific Chamber Players and St Lucia Orchestra, who set a high standard as the Maleny Performing Arts Orchestra, “ Ms Taylor said.

The cast includes the extraordinary talents of veteran Maleny singers, Jenny Keys, Barbie Norman, Colin Dunn and Eddie Weir. They welcome back Paul Richardson, and introduce two new members of the cast, Evalee Sharples and Ian McMaster.  The bDifferent Dance Academy dancers will also grace the stage.

The performances will take place at the newly renovated Maleny Community Centre, commencing 21 June, 6.30pm (Gala Night). Matinees will be held on 23 June - 2.00pm, 29 June - 4.00pm, and 30 June – 2.00pm. A second evening performance will be held on 28 June - 6.30pm.

Tickets will be available from 20 May and prices are: Gala night only $33 | Adult - $27.50 | Concession - $22 and can be booked by phoning the Maleny Visitor Centre on 5499 9033 or 5494 2584 for Gala Night tickets.

(Image Above : The mysterious Hungarian Countess played by Jenny Keys
and her love-struck husband, Gabriel von Eisenstein played by Paul Richardson.)