With episodes nearing 350 in the STAGES archive, it’s time to revisit conversations featured in our previous seasons. STAGES spotlights such episodes, in case you missed them the first time ‘round - or so you can simply savour, a second listen. Either way, you’ll be accessing precious oral histories from the people who were there, on and around our stages.

Dolores Dunbar possesses an energy that has equalled that of her teenage students. In her role as Head of Musical Theatre at the McDonald College of Performing Arts she has contributed to the development of the next generation of performers with a knowledge garnered from extensive industry experience in a variety of roles. After several decades as nurturer, guide and mentor, Dolores is stepping down from her teaching role; but is certainly not stepping away from the industry she adores.

She made her professional stage debut in the Australian company of Funny Girl for J.C. Williamson’s. A stack of shows followed for Dolores, including My Fair Lady, Fiddler on the Roof, Chicago, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Les Miserables and Shout.

Other creative roles have seen her choreograph the immensely successful production of Nunsense, serve as Company Management and direct productions of Eurovision, Copacabana and Grease.

Always ready with an amusing anecdote that serves as a brilliant history lesson, Dolores is a walking encyclopaedia of our musical theatre past and the many characters who have inhabited its stage.

We should all maintain the optimism, energy and passion of Dolores. She is a great champion for all of us to aspire toward. It is a joy and honour to revisit this conversation with Dolores and celebrate her immense contributions as Performer and Teacher. Bravo Dord!