The broad Australian accent of the early 20th century has caused tongues to tie during rehearsals of Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music’s latest production Sentimental Bloke.

CQCM sub-dean Judith Brown said performers had lots of challenges getting to know the old ‘Aussie’ slang that almost died out a few decades ago. This fun-filled musical features the larrikin characters of Ginger Mick and Bill (the Sentimental Bloke) and the ups and downs of life in Melbourne during the 1930s. “It is exciting that students at the Con have the opportunity to learn about their Australian heritage at this important time of the year when we are thinking of the Australian ANZACs and their commitment to our Australian way of life,” she said.

“Ginger Mick is a 'rabbitoh' in the streets of Melbourne and many old timers can still recall when these men sold rabbits from their barrows door to door around the suburbs of our big Australian cities.” “The Sentimental Bloke, Bill, falls in love with Doreen, but needs to be properly introduced, so Ginger Mick and his girlfriend Rose set about finding ways to get the two together.” CJ Dennis’s poems are part of the rich fabric of Australian culture and this performance provides a unique opportunity to experience some of Australia’s literary heritage in a live performance full of song, dance and loads of great humour. The musical is one of the few true Australian musicals.

Apart from CQCM students, the cast features community members and students from other Central Queensland University faculties.

The show uses many of CJ Dennis' original poems and has been created as a musical and been part of the Australian music theatre scene for many decades. The Sentimental Bloke was written by Albert Arlen, Nancy Brown and Lloyd Thomson, based on the much-loved Australian poems of CJ Dennis.

Tickets for the Friday April 30 (8pm) and Saturday May 1 (2pm and 8pm) performances are still available by telephoning Kim Mackenzie on 4940 7800.