FOR more than 40 years, the Molong Players have been bringing laughter, creativity, and community spirit to the stage, and this year’s production promises to be no different.
Company president and producer Paula Rudd has been involved with the group for more than two decades, and said the group continued to thrive because of the passion of local people.
“It’s the best thing you can do for a bit of fun and still be involved in your community,” Rudd said.
“It’s done so much for the community, and it has so much to offer people as an outlet.”
Rudd said the Players had experienced many changes over the years, from the days when audiences would queue overnight to secure tickets, through to adapting after COVID, and the closure of a former performance space.
“We just weren’t willing to let it die,” she said.
Never keen to sit still, Molong Players’ latest production, Don’t Call Me Elvis, began with an idea from Kate Hazelton and has been developed by the group through shared writing sessions.
The musical comedy follows a young man embarrassed by his grandmother’s obsession with the King, before a series of unexpected events brings impersonators, K-Pop fans, and other characters to Molong.
“It’s a mad, eclectic mix like always,” Rudd said.
The show continues the Molong Players tradition of blending humour, music, and local references with Rudd encouraging more people to get involved.
The production will also offer audience members the chance to get into the spirit of the show, with Rudd encouraging people to dress up and embrace the Elvis theme.
While officially casting is over, Molong Players are still seeking more extras to join the fun, with no acting experience required.
“We’re looking for more wandering Elvi,” Rudd said. “Anyone who wants to. You don’t have to speak. You can just dance and jimmy around if you want to.”
Don’t Call Me Elvis will feature performances, dinner and entertainment, with tickets priced at $65 available from stagecenta.com.