Melbourne’s Creative Drama and Arts Theatre returns with innovative production

On Saturday February 26 the Adult group of the Melbourne Community Creative Drama and Arts Theatre is presenting the theatrical performance “Mόνοι” (Greek for alone).

Based on a compilation of monologues and poems from Greek and global authors and poets, “Mόνοι” is adapted for the stage by Australian born director of Greek heritage Jeremy Artis. 

The play is centered around the idea of belonging and discusses how individuals can find themselves lonely, longing for social interaction during a lockdown or rediscovering themselves after moving to a new country.

“I want the spectators -event those who don’t speak Greek- to connect with what is happening on stage and to participate either by following the monologues or with their senses,” the director said.

This is the first time Artis has directed for the Community Theatre, but he has been involved with short films and documentaries and has worked in theatre in Greece, where he grew up and completed his studies. He moved back to Melbourne in 2018 to become a filmmaker and is currently studying a Bachelor in Film and Television.

This play has been in the works since last year, and most of the rehearsals were conducted virtually due to the rolling lockdowns in Victoria. 

“We didn’t have much time for rehearsals and it was hard at times but I was determined to go ahead and make it work. 

“My idea was to create a dynamic performance that would go ahead if need be with reduced cast, no lights and no stage and I believe we have achieved a great result considering the circumstances.” 

A pre presentation of “Mόνοι” will be running at Melbourne’s Fairfield Amphitreatre on Saturday February 26 at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $18 and can be purchased here. An official premiere will be held on March 20 at the Greek Centre.