Stories spring from the streets of Sydney

Actors from the Actors Centre Australia will retell word-for-word the lives of people living and working on the streets of Kings Cross in Wayside Chapel’s latest play Stories from the Wayside.

The reality theatre show will capture the experiences of visitors, volunteers and staff at the Wayside Chapel to celebrate the redevelopment of the iconic Kings Cross chapel.

“Part of my vision is to reveal and unveil this side of Sydney that no one really sees, understands or hears,” said producer of Stories from the Wayside, Angus Anderson.

Mr Anderson, who will also act in the play, said he wanted to stage a play worthy of the Wayside Chapel’s new theatre.

He said he wants audiences to make up their own mind about the production. For him it showcases another way of life, different but still profoundly the same.

“A lot of people in Sydney live a very privileged life and maybe [the play] will create an awareness about what else happens in this amazing city,” he said.

“This is about people that we live amongst in Sydney that share the same air as us.”

One of the eight characters whose experiences will be brought to life by the play is Wayside Chapel Communications Manager, Katrina Matheison.

Ms Matheison has been at the Wayside Chapel for four years and said it has been the highlight of her working life.

“From the first moment I walked in the door I felt completely at home,” said Ms Matheison.

She said spending last Christmas with “everybody from people who [were] sleeping rough to little old ladies from the neighborhood” was a personal highlight.

“It was a true community.”

Ms Matheison said she believes there is a wealth of diversity on the streets of Kings Cross that is often overlooked by other Sydneysiders.

She explained the Wayside Chapel’s philosophy is “we’re all in it together”.

Wayside Chapel’s Pastor Graham Long said the chapel’s dedication to inclusion will be captured in the play.

“You’ll come away with a renewed optimism and new sense of the solidarity of all people,” he said.

Opening night has already been sold out and it will be the first opportunity for the eight Waysiders to see themselves portrayed on stage.

“I don’t know what to expect, but I know it’s going to be amazing,” said Ms Matheison.

Stories from the Wayside will run from August 19 to August 28.

By Lucy Swinnen