Stories about Mackay’s people will be reconstructed through a blend of live music, theatre and digital media in the coming months.

In a joint project Crossroads Arts and Opera North have invited singers, actors, musicians and backstage crew from the region, including Central Queensland University’s multimedia and Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music students to help create a performance that reflects Mackay’s past.

The script and production will be developed through a series of workshops with professional artists for performances to be held in late November.

CQU Mackay sub-Dean for Informatics and Communication Donald Alexander said the performance would transform images often associated with opera.

“This is an exciting project at many levels. Not only will this be first time that digital multimedia concepts have been incorporated into a musical/theatrical production in the region, but also CQU’s multimedia expertise will get a high level of exposure to Mackay’s artistic community,” he said.

“Multimedia lecturer Martin Francis had some theatrical experience in Adelaide before recently joining CQU and is working on a number of concepts such as three dimensional holograms for possible incorporation into the production. The project will also provide a further creative outlet for students.

Left: CQ Arts Calendar Editor Jennifer Emmett and CQU Mackay sub-Dean for Informatics and Communication Donald Alexander play ‘cat and mouse’ at a workshop for an upcoming performance from Crossroad Arts and Opera North.

Above: Glen Gospel instructs performers preparing for a performance that combines music, theatre and digital media.