Young Performers Take the Stage at The Open Stage - a performing Arts Holiday Workshop Event! 

Port Macquarie’s The Open Stage holiday event recently brought together a vibrant group of young people eager to explore the world of performing arts. Held over two days at the Home Cafe at Roto House, the event welcomed local youth aged 12-18 years for a fun and creative adventure in drama, dance, makeup, and more.

Organised by Out Loud Proud, headspace, and Home Cafe, The Open Stage was designed to offer an inclusive, supportive space for participants to try their hand at different artistic pursuits, regardless of experience level. The event was proudly funded by the NSW Government’s Regional Youth Holiday Break Grant Program.

With workshops running on Thursday and Friday afternoons, young attendees had the chance to participate in a wide range of activities.

 Workshops included makeup tutorials for aspiring drag kings, queens, and cosplay fans; acting and improv sessions that focused on scene work and expression; circus skills workshops where participants learned to juggle, clown, and perform other circus tricks; and a spoken word and songwriting session, where participants were encouraged to craft their own rap, poetry, and lyrics.

The event culminated in a showcase night on Friday evening, where participants shared their new skills with family, friends, and the local community. The casual showcase offered a platform for performers to strut their stuff on the "open stage" in front of an enthusiastic crowd, which included parents, carers, and other supporters.

For all the fun.. check out the full FB album of photos here

The Open Stage event was designed to be a welcoming space for all, with a particular focus on being LGBTQIA+ friendly and accessible to people of all abilities. It was a free event, with all resources and food provided at no cost. Participants were also treated to free face painting, and food and drinks were available for purchase on-site through the Home Cafe.