Rural Residents in Central West NSW Join Local Theatre Groups

Residents of the rural town of Molong in the NSW Central West combine livestock and crop work with roles in local theatre productions. A 28-year-old stockman spends weekdays on a tractor or mustering sheep and cattle, then performs on stage each Friday.

"It's ... escapism," the stockman said. " The same resident writes musical comedies that have toured Australia and views theatre as a way to manage daily farm pressures. He said a creative outlet reduces stress for anyone working on the land.

A mixed farmer who has belonged to the Molong Players for nearly 20 years travels several kilometres several times a week to the community hall. She writes the next production scheduled for later this year. "It is a joyous outlet for living in the country, particularly when times get tough because you can check all your emotional baggage at the door and have a good time," the farmer said.

The group, active for almost 40 years, recruits any resident who wants to participate and uses farmers' technical skills for set construction. An actor and co-writer said the shows give the small community a scheduled night out that is lighthearted and anticipated each year.