OIBSERVER: 50 years for Essendon Theatre Company
Congratulations to members of Essendon Theatre Company who celebrated ETC’s 50th anniversary with many folk who made the milestone possible by sharing time, talent and passion.
Actors, directors, front-of-house personnel, backstage volunteers and audience members came together at the Bradshaw Street Community Hall for an afternoon of memories and celebration.
Essendon Theatre Company started as ‘The Jacobians’, formed in 1976 by local actors including Life Member Dawn Hinrichsen’s parents, Eileen and Davd.
In 1977, the company name changed to Essendon Theatre Company and at least four plays a year have been presented ever since.
The company’s early rehearsals were held in the Hinrichsens’ lounge-room in Fairfield, with performances presented at the Civic Theatre in Moonee Ponds.
In 1978, the group discovered a disused hall in Bradshaw Street,West Essendon, and have been there ever since.
Over the years, Essendon Theatre Company has enjoyed many successes in One Act Play Festivals and in Victorian Drama League Awards.
Essendon Theatre Company is known for its inclusiveness, with everyone having a sense of ownership. A great example of theatre by the community, in the community, for the community.
Here’s to the next 50 years. Congratulations Essendon Theatre Company.
Cheryl Threadgold
Pictured: Essendon Theatre Company Life Members and committee members celebrate 50 years. From left: Rhiannon Munro, Dawn Hinrichsen, Christine Nilsson, Ian Cairncross, Michael Bentley, Rosalin Shafik-Eid and Angelo Snell.