The community showed their full support with filling the theatre with wonderful community spirit, it was a fabulous evening. Local artists gave their time and talent for free and the audience certainly enjoyed their performances, each act receiving a resounding applause.

It was a great opportunity for Bowraville Theatre to remind the community its open for their enjoyment and an opportunity for local artists to perform in front of a large audience with state-of-the-art sound and lighting all on a historic stage.

The evening was opened by Gumbaynggirr Elder Uncle Martin Ballangarrys' unique style of welcome to all, then the entertainment kicked off with Michael the Living Poet who was mesmerising with his verse that made us laugh and made us think of our Aussie culture and it was astounding to hear he only started writing poetry after the passing of Steve Irwin and since has won Melbourne's Best Busker and other prestigious awards.

Next up were the Bowraville Theatre Players who brought us renaissance Shakespeare sonnets, actors reciting their lines perfectly with theatrical drama and expression.

For some guests this was a new experience and one I am sure they will gladly come along to see more performances. Guests and artists enjoyed the opportunity to mingle at interval while enjoying the gourmet delights, all provided by Rotary.

There were many prizes won on the night, all generously donated by Mid North Coast businesses, more that $2000 was raised on the night, this will go towards bringing high-quality performances and events to Bowraville Theatre.

After interval we had the young and talented Dylan Mann and Ellesia James whose performances were mesmerising, so young and talented; we all will watch their music careers with local pride. Then last but definitely not least was Rod Dowsett, WOW now this was the perfect performance to end this Showcase evening.

The audience stayed till the last song, I am sure they were hoping the performance would not end. The atmosphere on the evening was one of community spirit, some guests saying they had never been to the Bowraville Theatre before and eagerly announced they will be back and are bringing their friends too.

Thanks to the artists, Rotary and the many Bowraville Theatre volunteers who made this evening possible; visit www.bowravilletheatre.com.au to find out what's coming up next or for any enquiries for bookings or volunteering opportunities or follow us on facebook.