BECAUSE the auditorium of the Link Theatre is waiting for decisions on new seating, and the traditional staging has been removed, the first production for the year is later than usual.
Northam audiences will have a different theatre experience on entering the auditorium for the Northam Theatre Group's production of Kipling.
Kipling, now in rehearsal, is to be staged in a different and innovative format and approach.
In stark contrast to the more traditional costumed plays in stage-built settings, Kipling will be minimalist in setting and costume.
Kipling is centred on Rudyard Kipling's verse, prose, humour, with some of his verses set to music.
Audiences will be familiar with some of the readings and music.
But to others, the work of Kipling will come as a complete surprise.
His verses and prose were written across 61 years until his death aged 70 in 1936.
His early schoolboy works were written in England at school, others were written in India while a journalist, some while living with his family in America and some while he was a war correspondent in Africa.
His writings cover a wide field, from wry and sardonic humour to both tragic and light hearted story telling.
Because the design of the theatre has been completely changed for this one production, seating will be informal with no numbered seats.
It is first come, best seated.
Seating at floor level can be re-arranged in groups by patrons.
The group is concentrating on the huge project of installing new seating in the auditorium.
Businesses and private people are being approached seeking sponsorship to help reach the large financial target.
The group is confident their theatre patrons will continue to support them as they begin to bring the Link from dark to light.
The production dates are August 21, 22 and 23.
Doors and bar open at 7.30pm, and Kipling at 8pm sharp.
Ticket sales opened on August 4 at Everlastings, for $15.
The next production will be a 50's style musical towards the end of the year.