The Griffith and Regional Association of the Performing Arts is gearing up to bring their newest production to life. In contrast to their renditions of Shakespeare and large ensemble productions, "Hopes and Dreams" is a two-person play exploring personal inertia and the dreariness of routine.

The play was written by Bernie Maxwell, who also acts as one half of the cast. The other half is Jenny Ellis, playing the main character, a 1960s housewife struggling with the monotony of her life and 'yearning for something more.' The play is being directed by Peter Fordham, who also built the set and is operating the lights.

Mr Maxwell began the project as a university exercise and has seen it take different forms and explain to the now 80-minute production.

"I've had the idea for a long time and it's come a long way. It's now quite an emotional journey."

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Miss Ellis is excited to tackle the project despite acknowledging how intimidating the role is, performing without the aid of an ensemble cast behind you. In fact, she spends around a third of the production alone on stage.

"I've been in quite a few musicals and productions. I was in 'Wicked', I played Titania in 'A Midsummer Night's Dream.' I've done a lot of these mythical, fantasy characters and this is the first real life character I've played so I'm excited." Miss Ellis said about her character.

"I get to portray a whole range of emotions."

Mr Maxwell was grateful to Miss Ellis for taking up the challenge, not least after accidentally writing himself into a corner.

"I wrote a scene where the characters dance, but I don't know how to. Jenny had to teach me!" he joked.

The show will be performed at Rooftop Productions on Banna Avenue, and will run for five nights, with an initial two performances on April 30 and May 1, and a second run over May 6, 7 and 8.

Tickets are available online or at 5 Cooper St.

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