JO Gibb will be looking to present a quality show on a shoestring budget when the Dubbo PCYC Drama Club stages its debut concert at Wesley Hall on June 2 and 3.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The group was established at the beginning of the year with "a handful of kids" and now has 48 members.
"The response has been tremendous," Mrs Gibb said.
"It has been exciting to see the way the drama club has developed and how much each student has grown in confidence and ability."
Well-known for leading roles in Dubbo Theatre Company productions, Mrs Gibb was encouraged to follow her dream of forming a youth theatre.
"Community theatre has given me so much over many years," she said.
"It is something I have shared with my own children. Being able to work with a wide group of young people is enormously rewarding."
Mrs Gibb said the drama club catered for three- to 21-year-olds. Seven sessions were held each week at PCYC.
"Most of the students are new to theatre," she said.
"Some have come along through word of mouth recommendations from their friends. Others have walked in off the street, attracted by the fun.
"A small number of students have been involved in school drama productions.
"Everyone is working really well together and enjoying learning about music and movement and the use of words.
"Preparing for our first concert is very exciting. Performances will be held over two nights, from 7pm. Tickets are only $5 per person.
"The concert will feature music from great shows including Les Miserables, Annie, The Wizard of Oz, Tangled and Peter Pan."
Mrs Gibbs received no funding to set up the drama club.
"It is just something I have done myself," she said.
"Through my connections with Dubbo Theatre Company I have been lucky enough to obtain costumes for the concert. My aim is to keep costs down as much as possible."
Dubbo Theatre Company president Jamie Foster said the PCYC Drama Club was doing great work and would help boost other theatre groups in the city.
"Our company and others, like Wesley Players, are always looking for new talent. Primary and high schools will also gain benefits.
"It's tremendous to see young people being encouraged to develop a love of musical theatre and theatre generally."
Mr Foster said Mrs Gibb had a pivotal role in Dubbo Theatre Company, as an actor, vocalist, costume director and vice-president.
"Jo and her husband, David, have lead roles in our new production, Godspell," he said.
"Their children will also be in the show."