Burnie is a fertile ground for learning the ropes in the performing arts. This year has seen no less than three talented artists who grew up in Burnie with their name up in lights, or featured in mainstream entertainment news.
Burnie actress Zima Anderson has had a starring role in the long-running Australian soap opera Neighbours since 2019. Although the show has drawn to a close, Zima will go on to pursue her career further, no doubt building on the strong foundation and following she created during her time on the show.
Erica Wild is part of the small ensemble cast for the Rogers and Hammerstein Musical Cinderella, and recently got to play - you guessed it - the lead role of Ella! After stints in Sydney and Melbourne, the show is now on in Brisbane until September 3rd.
Justin Hazelwood is known to audiences as the Bedroom Philosopher. In 2018 he released his childhood memoir Get Up Mum. The book was then developed as a play, with performances at the Theatre Royal in Hobart earlier this year. YouTube clip of Get Up Mum
Diary Image: Zima Anderson being dressed by artist Donna Vo backstage at the 2016 Burnie Betta Milk Wearable Paper Art Competition, Paper on Skin. Grant Wells Photo.
The Burnie Arts and Function Centre’s theatre…. where many of our alumni had their formative experiences!