season program - mec

theMEC.com.au

SEASONPROGRAMJULY TO DEC

2021

VENUE INFORMATION33 Manning River Drive, Taree.

Ph: 6592 5466 | [email protected] | theMEC.com.au

HOW TO BOOK TICKETSVisit our website: theMEC.com.au Come to the Box Office (Tuesday to Friday 10am to 1pm) Call us on 6592 5466 (Tuesday to Friday 10am to 1pm) Come to the theatre one hour before each performance unless sold out. Concession tickets are available for Pensioners, Seniors Card Holders, Student Card Holders and Under 18s.

BECOME A FRIEND OF THE MEC AND SAVEAnnual Friend membership is only $25 and will save you a bundle on the shows listed here and even more on other shows throughout the year. • Early ticket releases• 1 complimentary drink (spirits not included) before a show

of your choice• Pay Friends prices on tickets for family members that

live at your address• Ticket giveaways for Friends, drawn quarterly• Bi-monthly newsletters with the latest show details• VIP pre-show Friends functions throughout the year

ACCESSIBILITY AND WHEELCHAIR PATRONSAll seats in Row A are removable for wheelchair access.Wheelchair seating cannot be booked online, so we request that patrons using wheelchairs call us on 6592 5466 so that we can personally arrange seating that best suits your specific needs.The theatre is fitted with a T-switch hearing aid loop that is accessible from all seats. We accept NSW Companion Cards.Our team is very happy to assist you with particular requirements.

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Door 1

Door 2

1

18 9 8

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26

STAGE

158 91810 27326

19

SEATING PLAN

COVID SAFE MANDATORY CHECK-INAt the time of this program production, this information was correct.

In accordance with guidelines set by the NSW State Government, it is mandatory for all patrons to digitally check in to the MEC using QR code technology. Staff will be there to assist all patrons.

For enquiries, please call 6592 5466 or come to the Box Office from Tuesday to Friday from 10 till 1pm.

With a tumultuous 2020 behind us, we hope that you can Make it to the MEC in 2021 and support the creative arts industry again. We all need something to look forward to and the MEC is here to provide a variety of diverse entertainment throughout the seasons. Experiencing a performance will lift your spirits and encourage the performers that the show must go on with your continued and important patron support.

MEET THE TEAMOur dedicated team at the MEC are here to assist you with any enquiries or bookings. Together with our devoted volunteers, we hope you enjoy the vibrant program for our Jan to June 2021 season.

Some of our wonderful volunteers

(L to R): Ann Smith - Front of house co-ordinator, Kim MacDonald - Marketing Officer, Helen Knight - Sales & Marketing Officer. Nat Keegan - Senior Theatre Technician

Chris Tippett - Theatre Manager

Our Technical Team (L to R):Dave Stein, Damon Cross, Pete Wrigley, Matt Woodward, Ann Smith, John Shackleton, Craig Thompson, Nat Keegan

COVID-SAFE PLANThe health and safety of our patrons, staff and performers is our highest priority. In order to comply, we have implemented a range of enhanced measures and protocols.

STAFF TRAINING AND COVID SAFE STATUS MEC staff have received training in COVID safe procedures and protocols for your protection and peace of mind. Manning Entertainment Centre is officially recognised and approved as a COVID safe business.

MANDATORY CHECK-IN All patrons are required to check-in using smart phones. Our staff are able to assist but please allow time to do this prior to the show.

TICKETS AND ALLOCATED SEATINGIt is a special condition of entry that you must remain in your allocated seat for the duration of the performance. We encourage patrons to present their email tickets on their phone, or familiarise themselves with and say their seat numbers when displaying hard copy tickets to ushers, so that there is no need for ushers to handle the tickets.

VENUE CLEANINGAn enhanced cleaning schedule has been activated throughout the venue and a safety concierge will be onsite throughout the performance to support social distancing and contact point cleaning.

YOUR OBLIGATIONSPatron Contact Details: The patron who has purchased tickets in their name is required to have access to contact details of all members of their group.Cashless Transactions: Please purchase tickets in advance where possible so that they can be emailed to you. At the MEC please use tap and go rather than cash for ticket, drinks and food purchases.Social Distancing and Personal Hygiene: Undertake good hand and respiratory hygiene measures: wash hands frequently and use hand sanitising stations within the facility. Keep a safe distance (at least 1.5m) from other patrons. Observe floor markings at service areas and theatre doors. Remain in your allocated seat for the duration of the performance. If you are unwell you must not attend the performance: Should you be unwell, please contact us PRIOR TO THE PERFORMANCE to discuss whether you are eligible for a refund or exchange. Please note: if you are visibly unwell, or refuse to cooperate with social distancing, you will be asked to leave the venue for the safety of all of our patrons, staff and performers. We support patrons’ choice to wear masks.

MEET OUR IN-HOUSE STARS The MEC has a fabulous team of volunteers that ensure our patrons are always looked after and guided with any questions the public may have. They are ushers and bar staff and are always here to help. If you are interested in volunteering at the MEC, you too can become one of our stars! Please call our Box Office on 6592 5466 between 10am and 1pm Tuesday to Friday if you are interested in volunteering. If you have an RSA, you can also volunteer in our Ovations Bar.

MELBOURNEINTERNATIONAL

COMEDY FESTIVAL

ROADSHOW COMEDYFESTIVAL.COM.AU

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVALAustralia’s favourite comedy convoy can’t wait to tour Australia once again! More than any year before, our comedians are champing at the bit to break out from the barriers, shake off the seclusion and roll out the laughs. Home delivering comic treats from Australia’s largest comedy festival, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival returns to the MEC on 24 June 2021. Join the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow in 2021 as it rolls across the country to home deliver the Comedy Festival vibe to every crack and crevice of Australia. From Bega to Broome, Townsville to Taree, we’re criss-crossing the country taking in more than 80 destinations along the way. With an all killer, no filler line-up of Australian stars and talented newcomers, buckle in for a night of stand-up, sketch, satire, silliness and song to satisfy all your comedy cravings!

TICKET PRICES

Adult $50.00

Concession $45.00

Group 8+ $42.00

Friends $40.00

2hrs, 25 mins including interval

Age: 15+

Warning: Performances often contain coarse

language, sexual references and material

that can offend. It is recommended for people

aged 15 years or older. Smoke Machine/Hazer

may be used during this performance.

‘Side-splitting fun, razor-sharp, high velocity wit.’ DAILY EXAMINER, GRAFTON

THURSJUN 24

8PM

FRIJUL 27.30PM

TICKET PRICES

Adult $64.00

Concession $62.00

Under 12 $35.00

Friends $62.00

2hr, 30 mins including interval

JOHN WILLIAMSON WINDING BACK Australian icon, John Williamson, will celebrate his 51st anniversary in the music industry in 2021. Like a dust-covered road train traversing this country, his songs capture the beauty of the landscape and its people and, sometimes, the heartbreak of life Down Under, deftly moving between larrikin humour and touching pathos. Half a century on, John Williamson has made an art of expertly capturing Australia in song. ’The Winding Back Tour’ takes in more than 40 dates across Australia through to the end of 2021.‘While I’m not looking to retire just yet, once I’ve completed my 2021 Winding Back Tour I’ll be scaling down my live appearances,’ John says. ‘I’ve always loved the connection I receive when performing, so you’ll still see me popping up at festivals and special events. ‘Winding Back’ means I’m looking forward to spending more time in the garden and less time away from home.’Don’t miss the opportunity to see him live on his ‘Winding Back’ tour.

CELEBRATION OF SWING FEATURING JOHN MORRISON’S SWING CITY BIG BAND This concert spectacular will feature fifteen (15) Australian musicians and singers, plus showcase two esteemed singers, Gregg Arthur and Jackie Cooper and Sydney’s top instrumental jazz soloists.Musical Director, John Morrison is recognised as one of Australia’s leading jazz drummers, band leader and educator. The concert’s music repertoire will highlight the greatest Big Band hits of the 1940’s, featuring the music of Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Harry James, Benny Goodman and more.This music is still recognised after 85 years...timeless icons of our culture.

TICKET PRICES

Adult $84.50

Concession $79.50

Under 18 $54.50

Friends $74.50


SUNJUL 25

2PM

MOVED TO

TUES NOV 9

AT 7.30PM NEW DATE

TUESJUL 13

6PM

TICKET PRICES

Adult $25.00

Concession $20.00

Under 18 $20.00

Friends $20.00

2hrs including interval

SATJUL 24

7.30PM

GOODFELLAS BANDTHE RETURNINGThe Goodfellas band is made up of a group of terrific musicians who just love to play music together.

Each player is a unique entity carrying their own special story and bag of musical tricks to the Goodfellas stage. A gig is always exciting, colourful, funny, entertaining, thoughtful, fast, slow and everything in between. The band draw from a wide variety of influences and are keen to explore, so it’s always a musical adventure.

This line up of talented separate entities combine to form a colourful wall of sound and creative emotion. Their conviction, energy, excellent musicianship and songwriting will take you on a captivating journey.

You will know you’ve been around musicians who have truly paid their dues in the industry, completely devoid of the “showbiz” agenda. It’s a love for music and friendship that formed the Goodfellas band, so named because a “good fella” (or gal) was what you had to be to join.

ON-SCREEN FILMSOur OnScreen films bring the world’s finest entertainment to our big screen, filmed live from the great international stages.

See productions from the UK’s National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company, New York’s MET Opera and Broadway, The Australian Ballet and Handa’s Opera Australia on Sydney Harbour. Join the regulars who never miss a screening and savour the brilliance of the world’s best performers. As an added bonus, there are special discounts for Friends of the Gallery, Taree Film Society members and MidCoast Library Bookclub members. (This discount is available at the Box Office only and not available online).

SHAKESPEARE LIVE 400TH ANNIVERSARYFrom the RSC comes this sparkling tribute to William Shakespeare, the world’s greatest playwright and storyteller, marking the 400th anniversary of his death, hosted by David Tenant and Catherine Tate featuring Judi Dench, Ian McKellen, Benedict Cumberbatch, Helen Mirren and Prince Charles, among many others.

“A bold and innovative tribute… an apt and vivid reminder of the playwright’s chameleon brilliance”GUARDIAN

MARK OATS FIDDLE, VOCALSMATT ZARB GUITAR, VOCALSMICHAEL EYB DRUMS, VOCALSHESTER FRAZER (GOLDHEIST) VOCALS, PIANOSCOTT GREENAWAY BASS, VOCALSANTHONY WALMSLEY GUITAR

TICKET PRICES

Adult $25.00

Concession $23.00

Friends/VIPs $20.00

School group discounts are available for all films. Please call Helen Knight on 6592 5466 for school bookings.VIP discounts are for Friends of the Gallery, Taree Film Society members and MidCoast Libraries Bookclub members. (Only available at the Box Office).

NOTE: Unfortunately possible noise from construction of our new studio space means we cannot screen 10am sessions until further notice.

TUESJUL 2710.30AM12.30PMJUNKYARD BEATS IN

THE BOX SHOW

MANNING ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MIDCOAST COUNCIL PRESENTS

YOU WON’T LOOK AT A CARDBOARD BOX THE SAME WAY AFTER WATCHING THIS SHOW!

In the hands of Junkyard Beats, ordinary household items are transformed into extraordinary musical instruments and unwanted junk comes alive in exciting and surprising ways!THE BOX SHOW excites the imagination of children and adults alike. We follow four characters during their daily activities in a world made of cardboard boxes and junk. The contents of an abandoned kitchen and wheelie bins become the greatest drum set in the world; plastic bags are an amazing musical instrument and the human body becomes a unique sound machine.

To book your school into the performance please contact Helen Knight at [email protected] or by phoning 6592 5403

TICKET PRICES

School Groups* $12.50

Adult $20.00

Concession $15.00

Student/U21 $15.00

Group 8+ $15.00

Friends $15.00

50 mins no interval

* Please call us for bookings – some teachers’ tickets

are free

SUNAUG 1

2PM

TICKET PRICES

Adult $65.00

Concession $60.00

Student/U21 $40.00

Group 8+ $58.00

Friends $55.00

2hrs 10mins including interval

THE BEST OF BUBLÉ TRIBUTE EXPERIENCE

A spectacular show celebrating the songs and the story of Michael Bublé. A Live Music show with such a WOW factor line up of Australia’s finest musicians on one stage.Australia gave Michael Bublé his first ever world wide number 1. Since this achievement MB truly has made a connection with the hearts and souls of Swing and Big Band jazz music lovers here “Down under”.Welsh born, Byron Bay-based singer, Rhydian Lewis, leads his amazing Big Band “The Residuals”, to bring you one of the finest tributes to the musical sensation that is - MB.After many sold out tours and a reputation for being one of the finest sounding bands around, Rhydian and his musicians have become

Australia’s answer to the likes of Michael Bublé and Frank Sinatra and are masters of Big Band entertainment.This show is full of some of the worlds most famous popular songs, including a stellar line up of Bublé’s own hits, ”The Way You Look Tonight”, “Home”, “Everything”, “Lost”, “Sway”, “Save The Last Dance For Me”, “New York, New York,” “Moondance”, “Haven’t Met You Yet” “Come Fly With Me”, “Feeling Good”, “Cry Me A River”and many more.Come laugh, hear stories and be moved by some of life’s truly inspiring moments and how music helped shape MB’s life and made him the world class performer he is today.A Special female guest star will be performing some of Bublés best known duets with Rhydian Lewis.This energetic, perfectly paced show, will have you dancing along, either in your seats or in the aisles. Rhydian and his Big Band bring so much class and nostalgia to the stage that they make this a show you won’t want to end.

FRIAUG 67.30PM

BRUCE MATHISKE GUITAR ARTISTRYA LIVE MUSIC AND ART SPECTACULAR!

World acclaimed guitar sensation Bruce Mathiske, a vibrant, exciting performer, also adding the didgeridoo to his six string virtuosity, together with percussionist/artist Adam Manning, will take you on the musical and visual journey of your life! Incorporating influences from the likes of JS Bach, The Rolling Stones, original pieces and well known classics, the notes explode from both hands leaving you to wonder if there is another Mathiske in the wings. This is a musical feast combining fiery fretwork, tender melodies and exciting rhythms from the only virtuoso guitar/didgeridoo player in the world, whose acclaimed and distinctive style has captivated audiences and led to standing ovations worldwide. The “Guitar Artistry” concert experience is a feast as rich and diverse as Australia itself, Mathiske’s music also embraces multicultural flavours and indigenous influences, which are woven together with rhythmic authenticity and a sound that is uniquely his and uniquely Australian. All blending beautifully with the colours and tones of percussionist Adam Manning who will join Mathiske and draw on the inspiration of his indigenous heritage, by creating a painting live on stage which will evolve over the evening and will be given away at the end of the concert.

“displays technical brilliance and mastery of genres …..Mathiske is the finest all-round guitarist this country has produced”.TONY HILLIER, THE AUSTRALIAN

TICKET PRICES

Adult $50.00

Concession $45.00

Student/U21 $30.00

Group 8+ $42.00

Friends $40.00


SATAUG 7

8PM

TICKET PRICES

All tickets $33.00

Group 8+ $28.00

Friends $28.00

1hr no interval

SOUL SISTERS Join us at the MEC on Saturday 7 August at 8.00pm for an hour of live performance featuring the songs of Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Dusty Springfield, Patti Labelle and more. Supergroup Simone Berry, Erin McCudden, Sarah Morabito and Cate Storen are back after a sell out season at The Glasshouse Port Macquarie, bringing you an intimate showcase of all female soul classics from the 60’s and 70’s. The supergroup are veterans of the live theatre scene and have come together again for a live performance featuring the songs of the legendary Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Dusty Springfield, Patti Labelle and more. Together the women are a musical tour de force, bringing powerhouse vocals and high energy moves with unique takes on old classics.

SATAUG 14

7.30PM

TICKET PRICES

All tickets $65.00


1927From the golden era for Australian rock bands, to reinvigorating fans today, 1927 have been entertaining audiences for 30 years and have stood the test of time as icons of the Australian music scene. With a debut album that became a smashing success that went five times platinum, stayed in the ARIA chart for 46 weeks, selling an excess of 400,000 copies and winning Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) Awards for best debut single and album, 1927 became a household name in Australia overnight. The album was …. ish. Ian McFarlane in his opus The Encyclopedia of Australian Rock and Pop, put it perfectly when he wrote “…. ish is brimful of stirring, stately rockanthems.” It is one of the top 10 most successful debut albums for an Australian artist, to multiple ARIA awards, a multi-platinum second album, chart success in Europe and America. 1927 live is a show not to be missed.

SUNAUG 15

2PM

TICKET PRICES

Adult $67.50

Concession $63.50

Under 12 $39.50

Group 8+ $61.00

Friends $61.00


MUSIC OF THE NIGHT Music of the Night is a spectacular celebration and journey of Musical Theatre Classics that have captivated the imagination of audiences around the world over many generations. This enthralling musical and visual spectacular showcases memorable performances from the songbooks of Andrew Lloyd Webber, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Sondheim, ABBA and many more. There are stunning musical performances from Phantom of the Opera, Evita, Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar, Joseph and His Technicolour Dreamcoat, Les Misérables, Chess, Sound of Music, Rogers and Hammerstein, West Side story, Carousel, Boy From Oz! Presented by Australia’s own and internationally acclaimed multi award winning instrumentalist and vocalist Joey Fimmano. Joey is joined by internationally renowned vocalist Dexter Villahermosa, star of the West End and Australian productions of Miss Saigon and Jesus Christ Superstar and Australia’s leading Soprano Jessica Di Bartolo. This memorable 2-hour music theatre journey will leave you feeling charmed, spellbound and exhilarated by the performance of classic music theatre melodies.

“ It’s rare to come across a talent of this calibre. Joseph Fimmano is simply unbelievable” ALAN JONES AO

ALSO INCLUDING GREAT MUSICAL HITSFROM LONDON’S WEST END & BROADWAY

Music of the Night is a spectacular celebration and journey of Musical Theatre Classics that have captivated the imagination of audiences around the world over many generations. Music of the Night is an enthralling music and visual spectacular that showcases memorable performances from the songbooks of Andrew Lloyd Webber, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Sondheim, ABBA and many more from the most loved and adored classics from London’s West End and Broadway Musicals.

Music of the Night will capture the imagination of its audience with stunning musical performances from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic Phantom of the Opera, Evita, Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar, Joseph and His Technicolour Dreamcoat, Sunset Boulevard, Les Misérables, Chess, Sound of Music, Rogers and Hammerstein, West Side story, Carousel, Boy From Oz & more!

Presented by Australia’s own and internationally acclaimed multi award winning instrumentalist and vocalist Joey Fimmano. Joey is joined by internationally renowned vocalist Dexter Villahermosa, star of the West End and Australian productions of Miss Saigon and Jesus Christ Superstar and Australia’s leading Soprano Jessica Di Bartolo.

Music of the Night, starring Joey Fimmano, Jessica Di Bartolo and Dexter Villahermosa, including a full live band, is a show not to be missed. You will experience the brilliance of Australian and International music performance.

Be part of Music of the Night’s 2021 Concert Tour. This memorable 2-hour music theatre journey will leave you feeling charmed, spellbound and exhilarated by the performance of classic music theatre melodies.

“ It’s rare to come across a talent of this calibre. Joseph Fimmano is simply unbelievable” - ALAN JONES AO

A Celebration of Musicals

ON-SCREEN FILMSFOLLIES - 10 AUGUSTNew York, 1971. There’s a part on the stage of the Weismann Theatre. Tomorrow the iconic building will be demolished. Thirty years after their final performance, the Follies girls gather to have a few drinks, sing a few songs and lie about themselves.Tracie Bennett, Janie Dee and Imelda Staunton play the magnificent Follies in this dazzling new production.Featuring a cast of 37 and an orchestra of 21

“Unmissable. Razzmatazz, poignancy and cracking songs.” DAILY TELEGRAPH

NO MAN’S LAND- 14 SEPTEMBERIan McKellen and Patrick Stewart lead the cast in this glorious revival of Harold Pinter’s comic classic.One summer’s evening, two ageing writers, Hirst and Spooner, meet in a Hampstead pub and continue their drinking into the night at Hirst’s stately house nearby. As the pair become increasingly inebriated, and their stories increasingly unbelievable, the lively conversation soon turns into a revealing power game, further complicated by the return home of two sinister younger men.

“Two of the greatest actors ever born in one of the greatest plays ever written.” TIME OUT

VARIOUSTUESDAYS

6PM

TICKET PRICES

Adult $25.00

Concession $23.00

Friends/VIPs $20.00



REBELBY HIGHWIRE ENTERTAINMENTRebel is a live circus rock tribute to the original rebel, David Bowie. Stage dive into the mosh pit for a night of live music, glittering glam rock, phenomenal acrobatics, breathtaking aerials and spectacular heart stopping sideshow. Live music combined with circus and comedy brings to life an incredible body of work that spanned over 50 years, and an aesthetic that broke ground and inspired generations.Rebel has been inspired by the words of Bowie; “I want to tart rock up. I don’t want to climb out of my fantasies in order to go up on stage—I

SATSEP 4

8PM

TICKET PRICES

Adult $60.00

Concession $55.00

Student/U21 $40.00

Group 8+ $52.00

Friends $50.00


want to take them on stage with me.” Rebel is your Bowie fantasies realised - a live band, breathtaking circus, spectacular rock and roll sideshow. Rebel is much more than a tribute show, with aesthetics and theatricality inspired Bowie and fed into a live rock and roll circus extravaganza. Headlined by the incredible multi-award winning Stewart Reeve, and featuring a rockstar band of artists from across artistic genres and co-created by Highwire Entertainment, the production house behind Rouge, Papillon and Pop Party Throwdown among others, Rebel is a non-stop circus rock and roll party.

'GLITZ, GLAMOUR, FASHION AND PASSION IS WHAT YOU WILL GET WITH THIS ENTERTAINING HOUR-LONG PERFORMANCE'

EVENTALAIDE 2020'STEWART REEVES NAILS BOWIE'S PARTICULAR VOCAL STYLE AND STAGE PRESENCE. HE REALLY

CARRIES THE AUDIENCE ALONG THE ROLLERCOASTER OF MUSIC AND PERFORMANCE'COLLEGE ADELAIDE 2020

BRINGING DAVID BOWIE TO LIFE THROUGH CIRCUS, COMEDY AND SONG

N I C H O L A S C L A R K M A N A G E M E N T

'A FULLY ROUNDED PACKED SHOW FOR ALL AGES'STAGE WHISPERS 2019'GLAM ROCK AND ROLL

CABARET WITH HEARTSTOPPING PHYSICAL FEATS, A COSTUME SELECTION TO

DIE FOR AND ENOUGHTALENT TO MAKE YOU SICK...

OUR ONLY COMPLAINT - WE WANTED MORE!'

WE KNOW MELBOURNE 2019

NICHOLAS CLARK MANAGEMENT | 2020

“ A fully rounded packed show for all ages”

STAGE WHISPERS 2019

BRINGING DAVID BOWIE TO LIFE THROUGH CIRCUS, COMEDY AND SONG

SUNSEP 12

2PM

TICKET PRICES

Adult $79.00

Concession $77.00

Group 8+ $75.00

Friends $75.00

Under 12 $70.00

Under 18 $75.00

Student $75.00


Note there is no charge for carers or wheelchairs.

SATSEP 18

8PM

TICKET PRICES

Adult $59.00

Concession $54.00

Under 12 $30.00

Friends $54.00


AN AFTERNOON AT THE PROMSThis stunning spectacular salutes the famous BBC Proms Concerts of London’s Royal Albert Hall, including well-known favourites Rule Britannia, Jerusalem, Radetzky March and Elga’s Land of Hope and Glory. Join Australia’s most acclaimed international violinist Ian Cooper with opera stars, prima ballerinas, Pipe Band and the Blue Danube Orchestra to evoke the sheer exuberance of An Afternoon At The Proms Spectacular 2021. Enjoy selections from the greatest love songs of all time including the romantic movie themes and musicals with medleys from South Pacific and beautiful Mario Lanza love songs. The orchestra is joined by The City of Brisbane Pipe Band in a tribute to the magnificent Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Bring your flags. Bring your noise-makers and come join the fun and frivolity of An Afternoon At The Proms Spectacular 2021.

BOHEMIAN RHAPSODYQueen - Bohemian Rhapsody, is back on tour in 2021 to ROCK audi-ences around Australia. If you have seen other Queen Shows but not yet seen Thomas Crane and his band Bohemian Rhapsody, do yourself a favour and see the best tribute to Freddie and Queen Australia has ever seen. Thomas with his hot band Bohemian Rhapsody bring back to life the visual excitement, sound and stage energy as witnessed at a Queen concert. Queen, Bohemian Rhapsody will perform all the great hits like We Will Rock You, Crazy Little Thing Called Love, We Are The Champions, Radio Ga Ga, A Kind of Magic, I Want To Break Free, Another One Bites the Dust, Bohemian Rhapsody.

CELTIC ILLUSIONImmerse yourself in the Irish Dance and Grand Illusion sensation that has taken Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Canada, and the USA by storm, on its nationwide tour for 2021. This is Celtic Illusion, Reimagined! Even fans who have seen our previous shows won’t dare miss the Reimagined tour that is set to raise the bar once again. This exhilarating production has broken barriers by fusing unparalleled art forms and is more spectacular than ever before. With new spellbinding illusions, entrancing music and choreography, Celtic Illusion is an awe-inspiring night of family entertainment.

SUNSEP 19

7.30PM

TICKET PRICES

Adult $79.50

Concession $74.50

Under 16 $69.50

Group 8+ $74.50

Friends $74.50

Family 2 adults, 2 children

$280.00($70 ea)


THURSSEP 23

7.30PM

TICKET PRICES

Adult $80.00

Concession $75.00

Under 15 $60.00

Student $75.00

Group 10+ $75.00

Friends $75.00

Family 2 adults, 2 children

$280.00($70 ea)

1hr 50 mins including interval

WORLD OF MUSICALS This incredible brand new production returns to Australia in 2021 with a wonderful revue of all your favourite musical theatre hits which include such classics as The Lion King, Fiddler on the Roof, Mamma Mia, We Will Rock You, The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, HMS Pinafore, The Phantom of the Opera, West Side Story, Cats, Evita, Wicked, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Greatest Showman, Jersey Boys, Oklahoma, South Pacific, Miss Saigon, The Boy from OZ, Hairspray, Les Misérables and The Blues Brothers.The World of Musicals …., colorful, inspiring and memorable musical classics, all performed by an International star-studded cast, presenting the audience with nightly entertainment at the highest level. Whether a soloist – duet or the entire ensemble, the performers of this musical event will inspire in this musical whirlwind.“ALL THE HITS IN ONE SHOW “ that is the motto of this musical gala, full of highlights – the emotional and varied journey into the World of Musicals will delight the audience.The World of the Musicals is a show for the entire family, so get ready to be enthralled and sing along to all your favorite and much-loved musicals in one unforgettable evening. “The cast is supremely talented and an absolute joy to watch” BROADWAY WORLD

SATSEP 25

2PM

TICKET PRICES

Adult $55.00

Concession $50.00

Student/U21 $45.00

Group 8+ $45.00

Friends $40.00

2hrs including interval

BRIGHT STARSTHE SYDNEY SYMPHONY FELLOWS

Australia’s brightest musical talents return to Taree. As members of the Sydney Symphony Fellowship program, these ten young emerging professionals shine in a program of delightful French and American music. You’ll hear the brass musicians in bright and cheerful music and a tango-infused suite for alto trombone and string quartet. The winds each have their moment in Françaix’s light-hearted Divertissement and Barber’s languid Summer Music. And Ravel’s String Quartet gives the strings their chance to shine with gorgeous melodies and some of the most exciting music written for string quartet.

Francis POULENC Sonata for brass trio Samuel BARBER Summer Music for wind quintet Virgil THOMSON Tango from Sonata da Chiesa Corrado SAGLIETTI Suite for alto trombone and string quartet Eric EWAZEN Philharmonic fanfare Jean FRANÇAIX Divertissement for wind trio Maurice RAVEL String Quartet

TICKET PRICES

Adult $55.00

Concession $49.00

Group 10+ $49.00

Friends $48.00


Fri 22 Oct 8pm

Sat 23 Oct 2pm and 8pm

Sun 24 Oct 2pm

Wed 27 Oct 8pm

Fri 29 Oct 8pm

Sat 30 Oct 2pm and 8pm

Sun 31 Oct 2pm

Wed 3 Nov 8pm

Fri 5 Nov 8pm

Sat 6 Nov 2pm and 8pm

Sun 7 Nov 2pm

OCTOBERAND

NOVEMBER

A sparkling new piece of first-class entertainment from producers Taree Arts Council and members of the creative team behind recent outstanding presentations of “Les Misérables ”, “Mary Poppins ”, “Cabaret ”, “Miss Saigon”, and “Cats”.This rollicking show is just what we all need after such a difficult period of time - an uplifting and fun-filled night at the theatre. Driven by dynamic music and featuring vibrant dance routines, you will be singing in your seats and grooving in the aisles!There will be 14 performances only, so get your tickets quickly and let us take you to a small island in Greece (no travel bubble needed).

FRINOV 12

7.30PM

TICKET PRICES

Adult $65.00

Concession $60.00

Student/U21 $40.00

Group 8+ $58.00

Friends $55.00

90 mins no interval

ANIMAL FARMBY GEORGE ORWELL CREATED & ADAPTED BY SHAKE & STIR Animal Farm, one of the most enduring political commentaries returns in a multi-award winning, critically-acclaimed theatre production. George Orwell’s intensely powerful fairy tale allegorizes and satirizes communist governments while illustrating with stunning simplicity how greed and power corrupts with devastating consequences to all who yield. Revolution has taken place at Manor Farm. The pigs have assumed control and all the animals, fuelled by enthusiastic camaraderie and guided by a set of self-imposed rules, are promised a better life free from the self-serving greed of humans. However, it is not long until the rules that promised equality and freedom become the shackles that bind the animals once again. Created by shake & stir and directed by Michael Futcher, Animal Farm promises to be one of the most shocking, relevant and wickedly funny theatre events of 2021.

Photo by Justine Walpole

THE AUSTRALIAN TENORSThe Australian Tenors’ versatility spans all genres of the beautiful tenor repertoire. Five of the best tenor voices in Australia, The Australian Tenors are bringing a sensational program for 2021 along with romance, excitement, warmth and humour to their performance at the MEC. The concert encapsulates the spirit, the beauty and vocal demand of truly authentic tenor voice. Audiences will be thrilled by the ever-popular classical arias such as the tenor trademark Puccini’s Nessun Dorma and Verdi’s Anvil Chorus. The Australian Tenors also delight audiences with songs from hit music theatre productions from Man of La Mancha, West Side Story, and well loved Italian classics including Funiculi Funicular, O Sole Mio and Luna Mezza Mare. The Australian Tenors unite in this wonderful concert with a dynamic display of true Australian talent. The Australian Tenors have the talent and spirit of excellence that we, as a country, are so pleased to present to the world.

ON-SCREEN FILMS

THE FATHERAgeing Anthony lives alone in London and refuses the nurses that his daughter tries to impose upon him. Yet help is becoming more pressing, as she has decided to move to Paris. At once comedic and profound, this is a moving story of our human condition. The Father stars Academy Award winner Anthony Hopkins (The Remains of the Day) as a charismatic but fragile titular patriarch, against Academy Award winner Olivia Colman (The Favourite) as his increasingly frustrated daughter. The film also stars Rufus Sewell (The Man in the High Castle), Imogen Poots (Green Room) and Mark Gatiss (The Favourite), with a script by Florian Zeller and Academy Award winner Christopher Hampton (Atonement).

“Anthony Hopkins gives one of the most vulnerable and emotional performances of his career.” ROGEREBERT.COM

SUNNOV 14

2PM

TICKET PRICES

Adult $85.00

Concession $79.00

Group 8+ $76.00

Friends $76.00

2 hours 20 mins no interval

TUESNOV 9

6PM

TICKET PRICES

Adult $25.00

Concession $23.00

Friends/VIPs $20.00



DATE TO BE

ADVISED

MONNOV 15

1PM+

TUENOV 1610.30AM

TICKET PRICES

Adult $25.00

Concession $20.00

Student/U18 $20.00

Friends $20.00

School Groups $15.00

45mins no interval

* Please call us for bookings – some teachers’ tickets

are free

“ A funny and engaging treat … There’s a chance that it will provide stimulus for real conversations about language, theatre, difference and challenging the herd mentality.”

SMH

Based on the quirky and classic Australian picture book, Jackie French’s characters, and Bruce Whatley’s expressive illustrations of them, have been cleverly adapted for the stage by the Monkey Baa founders. With music and funny lyrics created by the multi-talented Phil Scott and the comedic imagination of Jonathan Biggins as Director, audiences will be engaged in foot-tapping, witty storytelling.This hilarious musical comedy, imaginatively told by four performers playing shearers, dogs and sheep explores the challenges and rewards of being an individual, and will be a lasting tribute to honouring your own spirit and strength, whilst working with the flock!

THE MEC PRESENTS

A MONKEY BAA THEATRE COMPANY PRODUCTION

ADAPTED FOR THE STAGE BY EVA DI CESARE, SANDRA ELDRIDGE & TIM MCGARRYBASED ON THE BOOK BY JACKIE FRENCH AND BRUCE WHATLEY

SATNOV 20

8PM

FRINOV 26

7PM

TICKET PRICES

Adult $28.00

Concession $20.00

Under 12 $20.00

Friends $20.00

1 hour 50 mins including interval

JOHN PAUL YOUNG 50 YEARS YOUNGFrom 70’s Pop Icon to the ARIA Hall of Fame, John Paul Young became the soundtrack for the countdown generation and beyond. John tells and sings his own story from Scottish immigrant to his place in Australian music history. John Paul Young is one of the most iconic artists in Australian music’s history, with over 4 million worldwide album sales and numerous awards, which garnered him an induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2009. In 2012, John received an Order of Australia (OAM) for his services to charity and the music industry.The Allstar Band features two of the original members in Warren “The Pig” Morgan who cut his teeth in the original Aztecs and Ronnie “Rockwell T James” Peel, of The Missing Links and La De Das fame. Both have been with John since the beginning and have been joined over the years by Greg Plimmer, Juan Gonzalez and Michael “China” Walker and this outfit has been together since the early 80’s.

WE ARE ONE PRESENTED BY DUNDALOO SUPPORT SERVICESCELEBRATING ARTISTIC ABILITY & DIVERSITY WHERE THE PERFORMING ARTS MEET THE VISUAL ARTSIn celebration of International Day of People with Disability 2021,Dundaloo Support Services are hosting an all inclusive concert with the theme of “We Are One”. The event will feature a huge array of talented people from all corners of our community and beyond. Music, theater, magic, dance, the spoken word and the visual arts will all combine in a spectacular night of entertainment on the 26th of November at the Manning Entertainment Centre.There will be some huge surprises and special guests on the night that will have to be seen to be believed. So save this date and do not miss this concert that will have you singing, laughing, crying but most of all leave you totally inspired.

ABSTRACT ENTERTAINMENT & TEAMWORK PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

From 70’s Pop Icon to the ARIA Hall of Fame John Paul Young became the soundtrack

for the Countdown generation and beyond!John tells and sings his own story from

Scottish immigrant to his place in Australian music history.

The Anniversary Tour

Y E A R S Y O U N G

TICKET PRICES

Adult $63.00

Concession $53.00

Group 8+ $58.00

Friends $58.00

2 hours including interval

Adventure is calling

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Barrington Coast is the destination brand of MidCoast Council

CONFERENCING FACILITIES AT THE MEC

The Auditorium Our auditorium has a 505 seat capacity with raked seating which ensures that every patron has a great view of the stage. This auditorium can also be hired for events and conferences, and we can arrange catering from local award winning providores. The MEC has hosted large conferences including the LGA Tourism Conference in 2017, the International Rotary Conference in 2016 and has been a venue for The Department of Education training seminars. The MEC has on-staff expert technicians who can look after all your audio visual needs.

Ovations Bar and Foyer facilities Ovations is a licensed bar serving a range of drinks and snacks to our patrons. Our foyer provides a relaxed space for intimate VIP functions and live music events for up to 120 visitors.

The Collins Room Our Collins Room provides a breakout and function facility with audio visual equipment for groups of up to 40 people. This room is used by local community groups such as University of the 3rd Age.

Parking The grounds of the Entertainment Centre provide ample parking for up to 200 vehicles. Currently we are, like all other Australian venues, affected by COVID-19 restrictions which have reduced our visitor capacity.

Please contact us for information: (02) 6592 5466Chris Tippett, Manning Entertainment Centre Theatre Manager [email protected]

BLACK BOX THEATRE The Manning Entertainment Centre is very excited about finalising architectural plans of our new theatre space - a new black box theatre connected to the main building. The new space for our community is possible due to $1.55 million in funding from the State Government’s Regional Cultural Fund and $1 million bequeathed from the estate of local philanthropist, Beryl June Flett. The new building will be a multi-purpose space with state-of-the art facilities featuring retractable seating for up to 150 patrons. There’ll be a versatile rigging system to accommodate many different types of shows, cinema projection equipment and audio gear. This space will be perfect for smaller and more intimate productions. It will also facilitate masterclasses and workshops, so the number of in-house events will increase markedly.

Wonderful things come to those

who wait!

Proudly funded by

A GIFT TO MAKE THEM LAUGH, CRY, CHEER OR PONDER. IT MAY SHOCK, SEDUCE OR LEAVE THEM IN WONDER!GRAB ONE TODAY.

A GIFT TO MAKE YOU LAUGH, CRY, CHEER OR PONDER. IT MAY SHOCK, SEDUCE OR LEAVE YOU IN WONDER!

33 Manning River Drive, Taree | Book: theMEC.com.au 6592 5466 | The Manning Entertainment Centre is a cultural service of MidCoast Council

GIFT CERTIFICATETo

From

Amount Date

Serial # Confirmation #

Valid for 3 years from the date of purchase

Starting at just $25, it’s simple to purchase a gift voucher online or from the MEC Box Office.

New shows are regularly added to our website theMEC.com.au where you can also sign up for our newsletter.

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Details in this brochure are correct at the time of publication. We reserve the right to add or substitute artists and vary the program should the need arise.

Manning Entertainment Centre is a cultural service of MidCoast Council. A number of these shows are presented by the Manning Entertainment Centre and MidCoast Council for our community to enjoy.

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