It seems like yesterday when we were ushering in 2009 and looking back at 2008 year at Skinny Twin. 2009 was dedicated to the creative development of Sustained with one reading presentation at the Dog Theatre in Footscray of Sustained in November. After working with Steve Payne for much of 2008 and 2009, Mark Shirrefs came on board as a dramaturg supporting the development of the characters and plot. The play developed to a point where we felt the title did not do justice to the story, Play names have been tossed around -dare to be faceless, I have eaten and Between Dreams and Madness are some of them. A full season will be announced at La Mama with confirmed dates shortly and with a name for the piece.

Daisy Noyes has joined the production crew working as an Assistant Director/ Dramaturg with Steve the Director. She brings a wealth of experience from New York theatre scene as well as more recently Sydney and Melbourne will complement Steve's vast experience over the last few decades. The second stage of development will commence in February this year with Steve and Daisy taking over the script and working with actors in preparation for rehearsals and season.

 As we say goodbye to another year, I reflect on the continuing struggle of international students in Melbourne, we highlighted their plight in A Country Crossroads (2007) and Destination Zimbabwe (2008) but violence against Indian students in particular has come to the fore. Students choose to come to Australia to study, it is still my feeling that the reality of life in Australia is underplayed, I only wish enough people could speak up, on your tube, chat rooms- particularly ex-students as their testimonials might save other younger dare I say naïve students from being bitterly disappointed.

 In addition, a big Thank You to the cast who took their time to read Sustained to a fantastic audience that turned up at the Dog and shared with me their critical thoughts, I hope they get to watch the final show and appreciate their much appreciated feedback! To Steve and Daisy - Rock on.

Sustained Reading Cast - 2009

Directed by Steve and Staging by Daisy Noyes

Mkipo                          Ratidzo Mambo

Andy                           Tom Long

Kim                             Carolyn Bock

Constable Johnno       Tom Considine

Sergeant Franco         Richie Halal

Helen                           Jo Ann

Samuel/ Jinda             Gordon

Commander                 Simon Tengende

Peter                            Richie Halal

Finally, looking forward to 2010 and a big shout to Mel and the boys- you keep me focused on the dream! Skinny ON!