In this episode of the podcast Showtime, host Andrew G speaks with Leigh Roncon and Ayla Hendricks, the team behind the Facebook group Positive Theatre Vibes. This online community has become a cornerstone of Melbourne’s theatre scene, offering a supportive and uplifting space for performers, creatives and audiences alike. The group was originally created ten years ago by a man named Ian, who felt the need for a haven where people could share their love of theatre without being dragged into the negativity and harsh critiques often found in social media spaces. What started as a small idea has grown into one of the most valued and positive platforms for community theatre in Melbourne.
Positive Theatre Vibes on Facebook
Leigh and Ayla stepped into their roles with a clear mission to preserve and grow the group’s core values of kindness, encouragement and community celebration. As performers themselves, as well as parents of young people involved in theatre, they understand deeply the vulnerability that comes with putting yourself out there on stage. They also understand the resilience it takes to keep going in the face of rejection, limited opportunities and sometimes harsh judgment. That is why they are committed to keeping the group free from trolling, sarcasm and unconstructive negativity. Their approach to moderation is strict but fair. They believe in open conversation, but only when it is respectful and supportive. If someone posts something cruel or dismissive, it is removed. If someone argues the value of negativity, they are shown the door.
The conversation between Andrew, Leigh and Ayla explores not only the motivation behind the group but also its impact on Melbourne’s theatre community. Positive Theater Vibes is more than just a bulletin board. It is a living, breathing ecosystem where shows are promoted, auditions are shared and the people who make it all happen are recognised. And that includes everyone, not just performers. One of the group’s most valued features is its emphasis on celebrating backstage heroes. Whether it is a lighting operator, a musical director, a stage manager or a volunteer usher, Positive Theater Vibes makes space for acknowledging their contribution. Leigh and Ayla both emphasise how important this is. In a typical review, these roles often go unmentioned. But in this group, they are front and centre.
They also talk about how much the group has meant to families. Many young performers and their parents are part of the community, and the sense of belonging it provides can be life changing. There are countless stories of shy or anxious kids who found confidence and lifelong friendships through their involvement in local productions. The group reinforces that by offering a space where their achievements are celebrated, not picked apart. This nurturing environment has ripple effects too. It helps keep young people engaged in the arts, shows them that kindness matters and reminds them that theatre is about more than the lead role or the final applause. It is about teamwork, courage and joy.
Leigh and Ayla also touch on the broader Melbourne theatre landscape. They speak with passion about how lucky Melbourne is to have such a diverse and dynamic community theatre scene. From bold new works to lesser known musicals that may never reach a commercial stage, local companies across the city are producing high quality and adventurous work. They give examples of shows like First Date and Daddy Long Legs, productions that may not be blockbusters but offer meaningful stories and creative challenges for everyone involved. The joy of community theatre, they say, is that it allows these kinds of shows to shine, giving audiences something fresh and giving performers a chance to stretch their skills.
Moderating a group of this size and influence is no small task, and both Leigh and Ayla acknowledge the challenges. They have had to learn how to communicate clearly, enforce boundaries and occasionally deal with backlash. But they say it is worth it. Every time someone posts a glowing thank you or shares their joy at being part of a show, it reinforces why the group exists. They also love how the group has become a go to resource for theatre lovers looking for their next night out. It is not just for performers. Audience members regularly use the space to discover shows, buy tickets and share positive reviews. This kind of grassroots promotion helps build audiences and keeps Melbourne’s theatre scene thriving.
The episode finishes with some quickfire questions, adding a bit of fun and spontaneity. Leigh and Ayla share their favourite venues, musicals they would love to be in and the shows that changed their lives. Their answers are full of warmth and enthusiasm, and it is clear they are not just moderators. They are true theatre lovers who care deeply about the people and stories that make it all happen.
What comes through most in this conversation is how much impact one Facebook group can have when it is built on kindness and intention. In a world where creative industries are under constant pressure, having a community that lifts you up instead of tearing you down is invaluable. Positive Theater Vibes has become that kind of sanctuary. It is a model for how online spaces can work when they are curated with care, and a reminder that even small acts of encouragement can create lasting change. Melbourne’s theatre community is stronger for it.
