A week of moving from classroom to performance space with the students; selling a home; seeing a child step out. Flying Solo drew breath for the first time this week in public. It’s the umbrella project for the one-person shows the third year acting majors have devised, written, and are presenting as readings for a live audience. It’s always been a thrill to be there at a first reading of a new play; good or bad, there’s an expectation and delight in what will emerge. Some of the work is very good indeed; all will develop further as the weeks go by. The final staged presentation in October will give us some indication of the future of these little dramatic gems. All will give the actors a neat showcase for their work. How nice to be able to say, “Yes I have written a play.”

Spent a day interviewing estate agents on the sale of my parents’ home. Now empty for over 18 months, it was time to let go. Had a mixed reaction to the agents’ taking on the job; wanted to see who would give the best service–bit of an audition really. Only one failed his, so no go. Am hopeful that my sister and I will get a sale soon. Sad to let go, but the memories are locked where they can’t be got at.

Last night my son took to the stage for the opening night of a great production of Beauty and the Beast at Toowoomba’s Empire Theatre. Refurbished exactly 10 years ago, the Empire is celebrating its status as the largest regional theatre in Australia, and arguably the most beautiful. The production of Beauty and the Beast was designed to showcase the theatre and the talent in the region. Under professional production direction, it provided the opportunity for the city and region’s musicians, actors, dancers and creatives to do what they love most. It is a splendid show across the board, and I was as enormously proud to see my child step into the challenge of singing and acting a lead role, and do it so magnificently. As I watched him last night, on stage and speaking with colleagues, guests and others at the after-show reception, I realised that he is ready for his transition now from student to professional actor.

So, a week of transitions. What next I wonder?