SPAT steps up to host first bush dance in May

SPAT is gearing up for another lively year of theatre, music, film, and community creativity. With projects in motion, it’s an ideal moment for members — new, current, and returning — to get involved.

SPAT Bush Dance

Stanwell Park Arts Theatre is hosting a lively night of bush dancing, with a one or two fun folk dances from Europe possibly making an appearance. The band is a homegrown one, made up of our very own talented community.
It’s the first time we’ve ever held a bush dance, and it’s a one-off night only – Saturday 30 May, 7:30-9pm. Stanwell Park CWA Hall, The Drive, Stanwell Park Tickets: Adults $20, Concession $15, www.spat.org.au

There will be someone calling the dances, so everyone can join in. No partner needed — just bring comfy dancing shoes and be ready for plenty of fun. Refreshments available.

Membership

If you’re a lapsed SPAT member, now is the perfect time to rejoin. Renewals can be made at www.spat.org.au under the “Membership” tab. Annual membership remains affordable at $15 for adults and $10 for children and young people under 17, and includes Personal Accident Insurance. 

SPAT Singers Dinner Show

This year’s SPAT Singers Dinner Show will take place on Saturday June 27, Saturday July 4, and at a special afternoon soiree on Sunday July 5. The event offers an enjoyable mix of music, audience participation, and a home-made meal, prepared by members. The 2026 theme, Beatles and Other Animals, is led by musical director Lindy Sharp. New performers are welcome – joining now still allows time to take part. Rehearsals are held every Friday at 7:30pm at the CWA Hall.

SPAT Film Society

The SPAT Film Society’s next screening is Song Song Blue. Check the website during the next couple of months for updates and further information. Film Society membership is $25 for adults and $15 for students, school-aged children, or concession holders, you can join at the door. 

Youth Workshop

Later this year, SPAT is preparing to run a youth workshop — potentially in partnership with Stanwell Park Public School — and if it goes ahead, it will be a fantastic opportunity for children to learn acting skills, stagecraft, and how to put on a show.

Annual Pantomime

The annual pantomime is already in the planning stage, and excitement is building for another year of colourful characters and community fun.

This year, we are very keen to see parents, both from last year’s panto and the forthcoming one, actively commit to the roles of stage manager, producer, poster and program designer, advertising coordinator, backstage helper, frontofhouse organiser, set painter and costume and props persons.

Their involvement always has such a positive effect — adults who have never been on stage often discover they love acting or singing, while others prefer to use their organisational strengths to learn theatre skills such as stage management or backstage support. Along the way, they make friends, become part of the community theatre family, and many go on to act in future plays — or even direct!

Upcoming productions

SPAT is also considering a new project for late August/September: a radio play or a hybrid radio/one-act performance. This idea is still in the decision-making stage, so keep an eye on the website in case it becomes a reality www.spat.org.au.