Voyager on a theatrical journey

Voyager Estate, one of Margaret River’s iconic wine producers, has been recognised for its contribution to the state’s arts community, winning the 2005 best small or medium-sized business partnership award.

A fruitful partnership between the emerging Noble Rot Theatre Company and Voyager Estate created the ‘Margaret River Vintage Festival Committee’, a not-for-profit entity designed to oversee Vintage Stomp! – Western Australia’s first community-based vintage festival.

The event, which was held on May 1 this year, exceeded all expectations. attracting more than 3,000 people (the local community only totals 8,000). The festival brought together community groups, local businesses both large and small, to contribute their time and resources.

“The event was amazing,” Voyager Estate cellar door manager Sean Blocksidge said.

“Nothing like this had been attempted in the Margaret River region before.

“It was great to see other wineries become involved as well. It really created a sense of community for all those involved”.

The event sought to emulate other wine growing regions of the world, where the end of the season is marked with celebrations and festivities. Circus performers, dancers, actors, minstrels, celebrity wine-stomping competitions and more were all included in the event.

Stomp was so successful that Voyager and Noble Rot continued their partnership throughout the year. As an extension of their relationship, Voyager hosted Noble Rot’s debut season of Don Juan.

Voyager’s stunning Cape Dutch ambiance played host to the six-night performance run. News of the production quickly spread and the show was sold out each night it was performed.

Noble Rot is the creation of Helen Trenos and David George, who were attracted to the non-traditional theatre venues across the region. Don Juan was led by Ms Trenos and Mr George and included a troupe of talented local performers.

“We always wanted a serious theatre performance, but we never expected the level of professionalism that we got” Mr Blocksidge said.

“We sold out each night, which was incredible given that we staged the show in the quietest time of the tourist calendar.”

The partnership between winery and theatre company has had tangible benefits beyond those of bolstering the local arts community. By playing host to the theatre performance as well as the vintage festival, Voyager Estate has distinguished itself as a venue for theatrical and community related performances. Similarly, the events highlight opportunities for local businesses even in the traditionally off-peak tourist periods.

For Noble Rot, the partnership with Voyager was a springboard to reinvigorate the arts community in the South West. With Don Juan and Stomp, it was offered financial support, access to a sophisticated audience, and an enviable backdrop upon which to perform.

This award in recognition of Voyager’s arts sponsorship in Western Australia is testament to what can be achieved, even by small to medium-sized organisations. Finding success in 2005, Voyager has already set May 7 2006 as the date for next Vintage Stomp, and future theatre performances are already being finalised.