Stage is set for Katanning Dramatic Society’s ‘lab of horrors’ youth production

Katanning’s rising stars will finally take to the stage tomorrow night in Katanning Dramatic Society’s spooky youth production. It has been a long road to showtime for the cast and crew ranging from 8-17 years old, with COVID-19 restrictions derailing production plans and rehearsals earlier in the year. With the help of the Shire of Katanning, local youth started learning lines from home over Zoom sessions before it was safe to practice under lights at the Katanning Town Hall. Their persistence has paid off, with the one-night-only production of Dr Frankenstrudel’s Lemon-Fresh Laboratory of Horrors set to entertain audiences tomorrow night. The production was a labour of love for Katanning Dramatic Society treasurer Lesley Balinski, who co-directed the play alongside the Shire of Katanning’s youth community development officer Georgia Kowald. Ms Balinski said she was pleased to see the show finally go on. “Theatre isn’t just about getting on stage and having fun, there’s actually a lot of life lessons to learn,” she said. “We have a lot of kids in town who aren’t necessarily sport-minded, so this is a place for them. “We also have some kids who actually like being backstage, because they have come to realise that no show happens if there are not people behind in the wings, or behind the camera.” Tickets can be purchased at the Katanning Library or at the door before the show at the Katanning Town Hall. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their scariest costumes for a chance to win a prize. Doors will open at 5.30pm for a 6pm start.