Thursday, 21 March 2024

 Gaelle BROAD (Northern Victoria) (09:56): I would like to thank the Bendigo Theatre Company for their invitation to attend the official naming of the Patricia Lyon Black Box Theatre. It was a very special night that recognised the contribution of a very special lady. Patricia Lyon gave so much over many years to the company, and it was wonderful to see her family there to officially unveil the plaque. Honour boards were also unveiled to celebrate the contribution of life members and past alumni who have made a career in the industry, and I would like to extend my congratulations to them all. The Bendigo Theatre Company brings people of all ages and different talents together, performing over 200 productions in the last 70 years and entertaining thousands of people every year.

Many years ago I was involved in community theatre, and I absolutely loved it – the scripts, costumes, lighting and sets, acting, choreography and so much more. Community theatre provides a space for people to use and develop their skills to captivate an audience. For the audience it provides an opportunity to escape the everyday and see life from a different perspective. I want to acknowledge president Vern Wall, the committee and members of the Bendigo Theatre Company, both past and present, for their vibrant contribution to the arts scene in Bendigo and on the world stage.