🎭 Come From Away
🗓️  14 May 2025 to 18 May 2025
📍 Lighthouse Theatre, Warrnambool
🎟️  https://www.holidayactors.com.au

When Greta Punch first walked into an audition room in 2005, it wasn’t with the intention of joining the cast—she was simply there to support a friend. But fate had other plans, and before she knew it, she found herself on stage in The Music Man with Holiday Actors Theatre Company. That chance moment marked the beginning of a rich, emotional journey through the world of community theatre—one that has spanned decades and deeply shaped her life. Sitting down to reflect on her experiences, Greta shares a heartfelt connection to the stage, describing theatre not just as a creative outlet but as a cornerstone of personal growth and enduring friendship. For her, it’s always been about more than performance—it’s about community, support, and belonging.

Paul Venzo’s introduction to the company came with a hint of hesitation. As someone who felt a bit like an outsider, he wasn’t sure what to expect. But the warm, inclusive nature of the Holiday Actors community quickly put him at ease. He speaks fondly of those early days when theatre offered a safe space for “misfits” to come together and create something beautiful. Over the years, this sense of camaraderie evolved into something more profound—lifelong friendships, shared triumphs, and even the foundation for his current work as a university educator. The skills he honed on stage—communication, empathy, collaboration—have carried through every chapter of his life.

Now, both Greta and Paul are returning to the stage with the Warrnambool Lighthouse Theatre Company’s 40th anniversary production of Come From Away, a show that couldn’t be more fitting for the occasion. Centered on themes of compassion, resilience, and the extraordinary power of community during times of crisis, the musical resonates deeply with audiences, especially those familiar with the spirit of small towns like Warrnambool. The show’s message mirrors the lived experiences of so many in the region—people coming together, welcoming strangers, and supporting each other when it matters most.

For Greta and Paul, there’s an added layer of joy in this production: it features an all-alumni cast. These are performers who, like them, began their journeys with the company years ago and have now returned to mark this significant milestone. Watching these familiar faces on stage, some of whom they’ve mentored or shared stages with in the past, creates a profound sense of continuity. It’s not just a show—it’s a celebration of legacy, of decades spent building a vibrant, supportive arts community in Warrnambool.

The conversation also explores how theatre itself has changed. Gone are the days of simple lighting rigs and hand-painted backdrops. Today, productions incorporate sophisticated technology, sound design, and multimedia elements that elevate storytelling to new heights. Greta and Paul both marvel at the professionalism now expected in community theatre, and how those advancements have pushed everyone to raise their game, all while preserving the intimacy and emotional depth that live performance uniquely offers.

And that’s the magic Greta wants to preserve. In an age dominated by screens and virtual experiences, she speaks passionately about the irreplaceable connection forged between performers and audience members during a live show. There’s an immediacy, a vulnerability, and a shared pulse in the room that digital platforms can’t replicate. Theatre, in its essence, is human—it reminds us we’re not alone.

Come From Away is more than just a musical for the Lighthouse Theatre Company. It’s a full-circle moment. It reflects not only the narrative on stage but the very journey of the company itself—decades of welcoming newcomers, supporting one another, and telling stories that matter. As the curtain rises on this anniversary production, Greta and Paul invite the community to be part of this celebration. Tickets are limited, and the message is clear: don’t miss your chance to witness history, share in the joy, and applaud a company that has given so much to so many.

For those who’ve ever been moved by a performance, found friendship backstage, or simply sat in the audience and felt part of something bigger, this production is a reminder of why theatre matters. It’s a tribute to what has been, a toast to what’s next, and above all, a love letter to community.