After the success of their 2024 production of ‘Jest at the West’, the executive team behind Coonamble Amateur Theatrical Society (CATS) is once again calling the divas and drama lovers of the shire to throw their hats into the ring for their next play.
Member of the Executive team, James Nalder says they’re working on getting back into the groove so they can once again bring a broadway-worthy production to the Plaza Theatre.
“Our biggest issue at this stage is working out who can be in the play,” said James.
“We had such a big response in 2024 and even had to do auditions for the first time in a long while, so this year could be the same.
“It’s exciting to see who might be looking to be part of CATS and what talent we can unearth that hasn’t been shown before.”
As for the play itself, James and fellow executive member, Miriam (Mim) McKeown are staying tight-lipped.
However, they did divulge that it’s one that has continued to pop up in their options each time it comes time to choose a play.
“All I’ll say is I think anyone looking to become part of the cast might be quite thrilled with the amount of action, colour and music that will go along with this one.” said James.
Miriam said she thinks the play will be one that will really get the audience involved as well and everyone will be itching to see how it turns out.
“It’s a bit of a different vibe with this year’s play, a different era that we’re taking on,” said Miriam.
“We’re not going to let too much slip on what the play will be just yet though,” said James.
“We want to let people come along to next week’s meeting and be surprised by what we might be looking to come up with.”
For those with no desire to throw themselves into the spotlight, there are plenty of other roles behind the scenes that are integral to pulling off a quality CATS production.
“It’s not just being in the cast, it’s all the supporting roles in terms of makeup, lighting and stage design, backdrops and general hands, we’re always looking for people to help with the production side of things,” says James.
“You don’t have to be a cast member to be part of the magic that helps make it all come together.”
With show dates looking to be around mid-September, both Mim and James are crossing their fingers that all the footy finals and other local events will be wrapped up by that point with lots of room in local calendars to come along.
“We’re hoping it will be a bit of a lull period in people’s schedules, so hopefully it can be something that everyone can be a part of.” said James.
In addition to the usual fun and antics of being part of a CATS production, this year’s team are excited to be collaborating closely with Outback Arts to help build on the success of the 2024 production and ‘add a bit more’.
“Outback Arts are trying to help put together a few things help us along with some skillsets and opportunities to improve what we’re doing not just for this play but for the years ahead,” said James.
“It’s not just about this play, we’re looking at the longevity of CATS.”
Mim said that some of the previous heavyweights in the society’s performance and production design have to step back this year, so there is plenty of room for fresh talent.
“We’d really like to encourage anyone who wants to get involved to please come along to the tryouts/meeting next Wednesday, it really is a welcoming place for everyone.
“If you’ve ever thought about being in the play, but might be a bit nervous to become a part of it, no one ever starts as an expert, so if you want to come and have a taste of it by all means come along,” said James.
“There’s usually a role for everyone if they want to be there.”
So, if you’re ready to take your place on (or behind) Coonamble’s Plaza Theatre stage for the 2026 play, then CATS is the place for you.
Come along to their first meeting on Wednesday 11 March, and try-out for a part or put your name down to lend a hand and be part of the magical team that brings Coonamble it’s biggest and boldest shows on the event calendar.
If you are unable to make it, but would still like to be involved you can contact James on 0427 259 535 or visit Mim at Outback Arts.
Break a leg Coonamble!