A REGIONAL movie highlighting the scenery, communities, and residents of Cabonne will soon take centre-stage in a special local screening featuring an appearance by its cast and director.
That Half Barbaric Twang will screen at Manildra’s historic AMUSU Theatre on Saturday 7 November.
The event will feature director Steven Dupont, actors David Field and Jeff Morrell, and musician Tim Oxley in conversation as part of the evening.
The film follows the group on a musical road trip from Wollongong into western Queensland and through the Central West, incorporating scenes recorded in Sofala, Hill End, Orange, Parkes, Eugowra, and Molong.
The upcoming event was arranged after filmmakers were reached out to, following an earlier interview by Molong Express, regarding the project, bringing them into contact with the venue.
For the AMUSU Theatre team, hosting the event offers an ideal platform to feature one of the area’s beloved heritage venues.
According to volunteer organiser Darren Stevenson, the venue stands out as a hidden gem in the region, making it an ideal setting for a film deeply rooted in the local area.
“I’m obviously very proud of the theatre and what it offers, it’s a bit of an unknown gem as far as regional theatres,” Stevenson said.
“It’s definitely underutilised and has potential for some really big events.”
“We are very fortunate to receive support from the Manildra Group to stage this event.”
Returning to the Central West carries significance for the film’s cast and crew.
Musician Tim Oxley said revisiting the area will recall moments from production, particularly at locations tied to the actors’ backgrounds.
Field, who spent his childhood in Parkes, is filmed visiting his former home, while Morrell shares links to the area from his time in Wellington.
After the film concludes, the cast and director will remain to perform music, answer questions, and converse informally with audience members.
Oxley explained that the team opted for an easygoing atmosphere over a structured question-and-answer format.
“We’ve had a few of those and they’re okay, but it’s better when it’s just mingling with the audience and if anyone wants to talk to us, they can,” he said.
Oxley said the film showcases plenty of familiar Cabonne scenery, while having the cast on site will lend an extra element to the occasion.
“It’s a road movie,” he said, adding, “It’s just really great footage of the area, like all the different towns.”
Designed as an accessible afternoon and evening of entertainment suitable for all ages, the program kicks off at 3pm with the roughly 90-minute feature.
Following the screening, attendees can enjoy live music, food, and the opportunity to chat with both the performers and filmmakers. Admission is $25.
“The film’s probably the keystone event, but that’s the beauty of these things, you’ve actually got all the guys here as well,” Stevenson said.
“There’ll be four guys here doing a live performance, which is another bit of entertainment, but then you’ve got that ability to interact and ask questions and talk to them.”