NORTHERN Victorian fans of bush poetry are in for a treat with a feast of Henry Lawson verse and songs coming to the stage on two big days.
The Campaspe Players will tell the dramatic, sometimes tragic story of the poet’s life in a new show specially written to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Lawson’s birth this year. The performers will recite or sing more than 20 of his most-loved poems.
Lawson was born on June 17, 1867, in a tent on the goldfields at Grenfell, NSW. He became famous nationally and overseas in his 20s, but endured an impoverished and difficult life and died destitute aged 55 in Sydney in 1922. He was the first writer to be awarded a state funeral.
The People's Poet: Henry Lawson in Verse and Song is written and produced by Echuca’s Gwen Potter, a history enthusiast and long-time folk musician.
“We guarantee there will be surprises about what really went on in Henry’s life,”" Gwen said."”’So many disadvantages and setbacks, yet he had unquenchable faith in his own talent ... the people loved him.”
Echuca’s Ken McMullan will play Henry and direct.
- Echuca Moama Uniting Church Hall, Hare St, Oct 29, 2pm, 0403-756-571; Grain Store, Nathalia, Nov 19, 2pm, 0403-756-571.
