Written by Kate Manley
How many little girls dream of being an actress or singer when they grow up. Quite often it has its roots in their concert performances where parents are the enthusiastic audience.
Then possibly at school when ‘Story book dress up day’ promotes written characters to come to life as parents scramble to get costumes to suit.
However it begins, we are indebted to those who have encouraged those small beginnings and have allowed those talented artists to share their gifts and rise to the top of their chosen field.
It does, however, take a village to support the individual with talent such as an actor, dancer or musician. A ‘behind the scenes’ army of trained professionals is often needed in areas such as design, production and management.
Many universities and conservatories offer courses in production lighting, stage and prop design, costume construction, marketing and stage management to mention just a few.
Locally, here in Hervey Bay, whilst painting is not exactly performance art, we have chosen this month to feature Ashleigh Manley’s artworks. These photos were taken at his studio gallery in Urangan where you can meet the artist in person.