Kiss the fish!

BPLTC
Apr 29
3 min read

L-R Aleka Hutton, Ellyn McKenzie, Michael Sperandio, Kerri Fleet and Rebekah Axe — **Kiss the Fish L-R** Aleka Hutton, Ellyn McKenzie, Michael Sperandio, Kerri Fleet and Rebekah Axe

There are many traditions around the world that one can partake in to feel like a local when visiting a strange land. Australia has the ‘shooey’ and Gander, Newfoundland, well they want you to “kiss the fish”.

Just why they want you to kiss the fish can be discovered by attending Bairnsdale Production Line Theatre Company’s 2025 production of Come From Away, opening at The Forge Theatre this Friday 2nd May.

Stepping onto the stage for the first time, after many years behind the scenes as vocal coach and choral director for Production Line, is Rebekah Axe.

Well known to the Bairnsdale community through various ventures including teaching many locals how to sing, Rebekah says she’s looking forward to challenging herself to be in the spotlight for a change.

“I connected with this story so deeply that I just had to put myself out there and give it a go. I am playing Beulah, a teacher in Gander who offers comfort and a few laughs to the stranded passengers”, Rebekah said.

“Beluah is one of the characters based on a real person and I feel it’s a great privilege to be given the opportunity to bring her to life. I really hope I can do her justice. Thankfully though, I do not have to kiss the fish”.

Unga the Bonobo - Unga lived her life out at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio, US. She died in March 2021. (© Columbus Zoo and Aquarium) — **Unga the Bonobo -** Unga lived her life out at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio, US. She died in March 2021. (© Columbus Zoo and Aquarium)

Joining Rebekah on stage will be long-time Production Line member, Kerri Fleet, playing the part of Bonnie, who runs the local SPCA animal shelter.

"Bonnie is rather concerned about the various animals in the aeroplane holds and decides it’s her job to take care of them. Including a very pregnant and very rare, bonobo chimpanzee named Unga ", Kerri said.

Attendees at last year’s musical, Anything Goes, will remember Kerri as the flirty Erma.

“Bonnie is very different to Erma”, Kerri says. “She is kind, caring and empathetic. And also very stubborn and single-minded, she holds to her convictions even when everyone is telling her otherwise”.

Ellyn Mckenzie is relatively new to performing with Production Line, having most recently played Mrs Sheinkopf in 2023’s School of Rock. Ellyn says she is truly honoured to be portraying the role of Captain Beverly Bass, another character based on a real person.

"Beverly is a woman whose strength, resilience, and pioneering spirit have made her an icon. Captain Bass broke barriers and paved the way for countless others, showing the world what determination and courage look like”, Ellyn said. “Her story is not only inspiring, but a powerful reminder of how one person’s achievements can create lasting change. It is a privilege to step into her shoes and celebrate her incredible legacy through this role”.

Come From Away will open on Friday 2nd May, for a total of 10 performances over three weekends, concluding on Sunday 18th May

Theatre-goers attending on opening night are in for a real treat, with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine and supper provided by dedicated Production Line sponsor, New Leaf Café, direct from their fantastic new location in the old Main Hotel.

More information can be found on the