Emma Pritchard

Grafton playwright Steve North has extended his heartfelt appreciation to the Clarence Valley community after the debut performance of his award-winning production The Last Rehearsal, which was brought to life on stage at the Criterion Theatre in Grafton by accomplished actor Dan Fahy on November 30, raised $4000 in support of several Australian charities.

Held as a fundraiser entitled One Night Only, the event also featured live entertainment by local indie rock band Hats Off and comic poetry readings by John Sullivan, with Mr North describing the occasion as a fabulous evening.

“I couldn’t have wished for anything better,” he said.

“I was super proud of everyone who played a part in making the whole night such a huge success, and to raise so much money for a number of charities which are very close to my heart, it was fantastic.”

Mr North told the Clarence Valley Independent the total amount raised was donated towards the Cancer Council, the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service, and the Oncology Unit at Grafton Base Hospital (GBH).

“All the money raised from One Night Only was made possible thanks to the generosity of our local community,” he said.

“We welcomed a very large crowd to the Criterion Theatre, and everyone who came along said they had a very enjoyable night, and that really put a smile on my face.”

Mr North also confirmed a follow-up performance of The Last Rehearsal, which is centred around a theatre group who are preparing to rehearse, but unbeknownst to their director, the play only features one character alongside a number of imaginary ones, is currently being planned for early 2025.

The event will be held as another fundraiser.

Further information will be provided to our readers in an upcoming edition of our weekly publication.