Damian Callinan says that no-one knows exactly why there’s a giant tap coming out of the stage at Tallygaroopna’s Soldiers’ Memorial Hall.
But the theory that it was installed to remove excess over-acting when Reverend James dominated the Tallygaroopna Choral Society is something he’ll discuss, along with other hall quirks, when he takes to the stage in the small town on Friday night.
The comedian, a three-time Melbourne Comedy Festival Best Show nominee and creator of the hit Netflix film The Merger, returns to the Goulburn Valley as part of a Riverlinks In Your Town series, with a show called Hall Stories.
Hall Stories is a live comedy show (and podcast) that documents the culture, characters, history and stories of Australia's beloved meeting places.
The In Your Town series is a community-focused initiative that brings entertainment directly to town halls across Greater Shepparton, outside of the main performing arts centres.
Callinan, a natural-born storyteller, uses his skills as a stand-up comedian and character actor, to examine the quirks, traditions and characters of each town hall in the series and has tailor-made each show for each town.
“The first Hall Stories at Harston was a resounding success and we look forward to bringing that similar experience to the community of Tallygaroopna,” Riverlinks manager Matthew Schroeders said.
"In Your Town allows people to enjoy live performances right in their own neighbourhood."
As part of the project, Callinan produces a podcast based entirely on the history, legends, stories, characters and events of each hall.
You can listen to the first episode about Harston Memorial Hall here.
Hall Stories at Tallygaroopna is on Friday at 7.30pm at Tallygaroopna Soldiers’ Memorial Hall. Tickets are from $23.
Tickets to the performance are available at the Riverlinks Box Office, online at www.riverlinksvenues.com.au or by phoning 5832 9511.