‘8’ the play pay-day for local groups

Melbourne’s most recent staging of ‘8’ the play was met with packed audiences and organisers have decided to give back to the community.

Nearly $3,600 was raised over the three performances held over January 31 – February 2 at Chapel Off Chapel for the Midsumma Festival’s 25th anniversary.

Funds raised will go to local organisations Minus18, JOY 94.9 FM and the ENUF HIV awareness campaign.

The play’s producers, Stephen and Michelle Barber, met with representatives from each organisation yesterday to hand over the cheques.

“Money aside, this has been the most rewarding experience for Michelle and me,” Barber said.

“Our lives have been changed forever by the people that came together to be a part of this production and we cannot thank Melbourne’s gay and lesbian community enough.”

Barber said he was planning to return to next year’s Midsumma Festival with a new play.

The three shows were accompanied by panel discussion each night with fresh speakers, adding a new level to the experience.

These conversations were captured by JOY and podcasts are available here: joy.org.au/wordforword

Photo [L-R]: Conrad Browne, Brent Allen, Stephen Barber, Michelle Barber, Nelson Barber, Micah Scott, Dean Beck.