Hundreds find hope, fun with ‘Not Dead Yet’ show

In its latest show ‘Not Dead Yet’, Older Women’s Network (OWN) Theatre Group tackles these tough topics but the overwhelming tone of the show is a zest and zeal for life and living each day as if it’s your last.
Giving the performers a standing ovation, a packed house at Holroyd Centre last Friday, laughed, cried and sung along with the cast whose ages range from 60 to 90, as they presented the challenges and triumphs of ageing.
The Older Women’s Network Theatre Group used the dead period of covid lockdown to create the show which was performed under the title of The Crones in Cabaret at the Adelaide Fringe Festival last year, with its popularity now booming.
Original and funny, the show deals with serious topics intermingled with humour and pathos, both spoken and sung, with a guest speaker from Seniors Rights Service at the end of the show talking about issues which impact older people.
OWN coordinator Amanda Armstrong said the show’s aim was to inform and entertain.
“Most members have no theatre or stage experience before joining,” she said.
“But the transformations have been incredible and we are always looking for more.
“Any woman wishing to join is welcome with no audition necessary, just a keen sense of the need to advocate for women and an urge to perform.
“We will next present six matinee shows as part of the Sydney Fringe Festival in September.”
The group meets every Tuesday for rehearsals at OWN NSW’s Newtown Wellness Centre.
To find out more regarding upcoming shows or to get involved: 9519 8044 or tg@ownnsw.org.au