Dawn Riddale, once a musical theatre performer, is the founder of Melbourne Theatre News and Just Auditions, two platforms that have transformed how Melbourne’s community theatre scene connects. Before they existed, show and audition details were scattered and hard to find. Dawn and her fiancé Craig created centralised hubs where performers, theatre companies and audiences could easily share and access information.
Just Auditions Victoria now has over 13,000 followers and has expanded to other states with varying success, depending on local participation. Dawn stresses that active community involvement is essential to keep the platforms vibrant and up to date.
She also values Melbourne’s unique theatre culture, including traditions like sharing a “sherry” before a show, which she believes helps strengthen connections.
Marketing remains a challenge for many community and independent theatre groups, and Dawn advocates for clear, timely promotion that includes all the essential details.
Run entirely by volunteers and free to use, these platforms are a labour of love. Dawn hopes more people will help manage them so they can continue supporting and connecting theatre lovers for years to come.
https://www.facebook.com/justauditions/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/melbournetheatrenews/
🤠For the latest theatre updates and behind-the-scenes insights, follow me on Instagram https://instagram.com/AndrewGShowtime
DAWN RIDSDALE Dawn Ridsdale is an accomplished performer, director, and theatre maker with over 20 years in Australian community theatre. She has appeared in productions including The Wiz, Don’t Dress for Dinner, David Copperfield, Cosi, A Murder is Announced, It’s My Party (And I’ll Die If I Want To), The Odd Couple (female version), and Waiting for God. Her directing and production credits include Don’t Dress for Dinner, Dimboola, and That Scottish Play. Dawn has also worked as a stage manager and production coordinator, bringing a wealth of skills to every project. Her passion, versatility, and dedication make her a valued member of the theatre community.
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