Growing Together: How Inclusive Theatre Builds Lifelong Connections

Showtime with Andrew G | Theatre Podcast Australia

In 2005, Greta Punch walked into a Holiday Actors audition just to support a friend—but ended up landing a role in The Music Man. That spontaneous moment sparked a lifelong love for theatre, shaping her identity through creativity, connection, and community. For Greta, the stage became more than a place to perform—it became home. Paul Venzo’s journey began with uncertainty, unsure if he’d fit in. But the welcoming spirit of Holiday Actors changed everything. Theatre quickly became a safe haven, where misfits found their tribe and lasting friendships were formed. Those early experiences laid the groundwork for Paul’s career as a university educator, with skills like empathy, collaboration, and confidence tracing back to his time on stage. Both Greta and Paul are now part of the 40th anniversary production of Come From Away, celebrating the legacy of a company that continues to change lives through the power of performance and community.

🎭 Come From Away
🗓️ 14 May 2025 to 18 May 2025
📍 Lighthouse Theatre, Warrnambool
🎟️ https://www.holidayactors.com.au

Holiday Actors' 40th Anniversary production of Come From Away is a heartfelt celebration of community, compassion, and the enduring spirit of theatre. Running from May 14 to 18, 2025, at the Lighthouse Theatre in Warrnambool, this special staging unites past and present members of the company—performers, musicians, and crew—who have contributed to its vibrant legacy over four decades .

The production features two dynamic casts, Yellow and Blue, each delivering three performances. This dual-cast approach not only showcases the depth of talent within Holiday Actors but also embodies the musical's core themes of unity and generosity .

Come From Away recounts the true story of 7,000 airline passengers stranded in Gander, Newfoundland, following the events of 9/11, and the small town that welcomed them with open arms. With its uplifting Celtic-inspired score and ensemble-driven storytelling, the musical transforms a moment of global tragedy into a testament to human kindness and resilience.

This anniversary production stands as a tribute to Holiday Actors' enduring impact on the arts and its commitment to storytelling that bridges generations and communities.

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GRETA PUNCH has been a vital part of the Holiday Actors family since 2005, when she made her debut with just one line—but delivered it like a pro. Since then, she’s played everything from bold comic relief to powerful leading roles, always bringing energy, honesty, and heart to the stage.

Offstage, Greta is just as passionate. She’s directed, co-directed, photographed, designed, built puppets, run marketing—you name it. Her creativity and generosity have shaped countless productions, and her collaborative spirit makes her a go-to team member.

This year, Greta steps into a role that couldn’t be a better fit: someone deeply instinctual, compassionate, and committed to protecting animals. She jokes she’d happily climb into a cargo hold to rescue a cat—and you believe her.

When she’s not on stage, Greta teaches art at One Day Studios and brings stories to life through photography and design. She sends love to her mum, Janet, whose costume wizardry has lit up Holiday Actors for decades.

PAUL VENZO was there from the very start—at the very first meeting that would spark the creation of Holiday Actors. It took a little time for him to step into the spotlight, but once he did, he found his place. Over the years, Paul has built lasting friendships, treasured memories, and a strong sense of home within the company. He’s especially grateful to Sharyn Burns, whose encouragement gave him the nudge he needed to begin.

Since then, Paul has embraced a wide range of roles—from sharp-witted comedy to thoughtful, layered performances—and taken on challenges behind the scenes and in the director’s chair.

In Come From Away, he’s energised by the show’s rapid pace and clever storytelling, where actors switch roles in the blink of an eye. He’s also ready to tackle its physical demands—especially a certain fish prop moment that promises to keep everyone on their toes!

Outside of theatre, Paul recently appeared in the upcoming feature film The Returned (2025).