By Afraa Kori
In celebration of Gemco Players’ 45th Birthday, a vibrant new mural was officially unveiled on March 2, marking a significant milestone for the community.
In the 1990s, the GEMCO Theatre in Emerald acquired an old Red Rattler train carriage, which eventually fell into disrepair. With the aim of transforming it into a pop-up venue for various community events, GEMCO began refurbishing the carriage.
Dandenong Ranges artist and musician, Tracey Roberts, also known for her involvement in community arts projects across both the visual and performing arenas, was commissioned by GEMCO to design and create a theatrically themed mural on the side of the carriage, located next to the Gem Theatre in Emerald.
GEMCO Players, both young and old, contributed to the initial colouring of the mural, with Tracey spending several weeks finishing the 18-metre-long artwork, tidying edges, modifying and adding embellishments.
This project marks the biggest artwork Tracey has ever tackled and has been a meaningful affirmation of her abilities as an artist for public projects, expanding her practice into murals.
“It means that I know I can do collaborative projects with members of organizations of all ages and make it work,” she said.
Having people help me along the way created a sense of community spirit that made the artwork feel especially meaningful and significant.
The takeaway for those kids is that they were part of something special. They can look at it every day and say, ‘I did that.’ It might inspire them to do something else for someone one day,
and it gives them a deeper appreciation and respect for artists, public artworks, community organizations, buildings and even an old train carriage.”
The vibrant and joyful mural stands as a testament to the arts and honours Gemco’s founder, David Greenaway, six years after his passing.
Since its inception, Gemco has recognised the need to provide entertainment and activities for young people in the district and to this end, has provided groups catering for young people
ranging from primary school age to adulthood, highlighting juniors, intermediates and youth theatre.
GEMCO’s 45th Birthday celebration started with a lively performance from the Olde Boldes, featuring a collection of short skits, melodramas, and cheeky poems from the early years of GEMCO.
GEMCO president, Mandy McGarrigle said by starting with the kids, GEMCO gives them a foundation—a connection to their creativity that lasts a lifetime.
“One of the great things about GEMCO is that people who have never performed before—who aren’t professional actors—are still welcome to have a go,” she said.
“It includes everyone from the community; they can have a go at being part of GEMCO and being on the stage if they want to, or they can find the scenes if they want to. Many times, GEMCO has also raised money for important causes.”
As an art lover, Daniela De Martino MP is honoured to have cut the ribbon and officially unveil the incredible mural on Gemco Players Community Theatre.
“I love any chance people have to express themselves, to express their souls, to express their creativity and to engage others in doing so. It takes courage to put yourself out there, but in doing so, others receive, and that’s the beauty of the arts.
We see a lot of murals go up but there’s not many where you can say everyone had a go and it looks this good. Hats off to Tracey for her vision and generosity in ensuring that everybody can contribute.
I love that young people were involved because the legacy will continue through them. It’s about feeling part of something bigger than yourself.”
Connect with Tracey https://www.traceyroberts.com.au/index.html or GEMCO https://www.gemcoplayers.org/about-gemco
