Legends of the Skies at Mentone Public Library

Legends of the Skies took off from Mentone Public Library on Saturday July 9, 2022

Maggie at the Library

Maggie Morrison has the ability to light up a room, bringing energy and enthusiasm that inspires others. And she did this in bucketsful as the links person for the enthralling presentation given by the Legends of the Skies Theatre Group on Saturday morning at the Mentone Public Library Writers Centre. 

She is terrific, a real trouper!

One minute she was introducing the talented co-presenters, next she was leading us all in song, and then she put on her thespian hat to bring scripts alive and make them dance.

Legends Of The Skies bases itself at the Harry Hawker Airport at Moorabbin and writes and presents works that tell original stories of the unsung heroes of the skies. On Saturday we learnt how the subject matter is put together and developed from an embryotic idea to full blown production. The group does it all.

Writers Alison Knight and Steve Morris gave us insight into the creative writing process, the research that is required, the way they manage to add variety, humour and interest to what they are writing. They must always keep in mind that the audience has to be gently massaged into keeping up with the story. As Maggie pointed out, the venue where they present at the Moorabbin Museum is full of aeronautical distractions, so that the writers have to work hard to hold the audience’s attention.

Some more of the presenters at the event

The original scripts are work-shopped and refined over numerous readings until they are polished like shining metal and ready to go forth into production. The production and presentation team takes the scripts and rehearses. In the nine years since its inception, the company has produced 8 productions, one a year (except for COVID) Not a bad effort!

It was great to hear from a young fellow named Jamie, who together with two mates from Parktone Primary School, is part of the cast, learning from the more experienced thespians and adding the delightful charm that young people bring. He loves being part of it all.

This year’s production will be from October 27 – October 30 and bookings are open. 

Thank you Legends Of The Skies! What a great group! And it looks so much fun!

Elsie Johnstone