Warrnambool Entertainment Centre smells like home to Comedian Tom Ballard
Radio Host and Stand-Up Comedian Tom Ballard has come a long way from playing Blitzen in the amateur production of Rock’n’Roll Santa in his home town of Warrnambool, but says the small seaside town still holds a special place in his heart.
The 21-year-old Triple J Breakfaster spent many of his teenage years performing in community theatre productions at the Warrnambool Entertainment Centre and co-hosting community radio programs on 3WAY with long-term colleague Alex Dyson.
“Radio is really a way to connect with people, at 3WAY there were egg cartons on the walls and only our friends were listening, but it was still great. Now we get to talk to a national audience, and some people hate us and some people love us. It’s all part of it!” Tom said.
Tom performed at the Warrnambool Entertainment Centre last month and said it was great to be back in his home town, having moved from Warrnambool to Melbourne and then to Sydney earlier this year.
“It’s really great to go back and prove yourself to a home crowd. I’ve been doing a lot of cool stuff elsewhere but it’s a real milestone going back,” he said.
The Victorian Government, through Regional Development Victoria contributed $4.8 million to the redevelopment of the Warrnambool Entertainment Centre and works are expected to begin in early 2011.
“The redevelopment will really affirm the arts scene in Warrnambool,” Tom said.
“It’s a great venue, there’s something about the smell of the place that reminds me of primary school productions and running around backstage!”
The redevelopment will include revamping the foyer, café and Front of House facilities, new seats in the auditorium, a new flexible arts space and upgraded technical equipment.
“In terms of community spirit, the theatre is really important, especially for kids with the Fun4Kids Festival that happens there each year,” Tom said.
“Other towns have sheds or basketball courts that bring people together, Warrnambool has this beautiful old theatre, which is great.”
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