Bunbury Grammar graduate helps bring The Vicar of Dibley to stage

A Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School graduate will take to the stage in a community theatre adaptation of The Vicar Of Dibley in Perth. Morgan Halket will perform at Perth’s Harbour Theatre in the show directed by Dr Jarrod Buttery, which is an official stage adaptation by Ian Gower and Paul Carpenter. Based on the original 1990s TV series by Richard Curtis and Paul Mayhew-Archer, the script spans the first two seasons, with some later references included. The play tells the story of the arrival and adventures of a new female vicar in a small English country town, ending with the wedding of Hugo and Alice, played by Halket. Halket said it was a wonderful rendition of the story. “All your favourite characters and jokes are there. If you love the show, you’ll love the play,” she said. “I’ve loved playing Alice. She’s the butt of almost every joke, but she’s very sweet and endearing.” Halket, who has worked in opera since 2020, said she was glad to be flexing her acting muscles in the play. “I love the show — I grew up watching it with my family. I think we’ve seen every episode twice,” she said. “When I told my parents about this audition they both said ‘whatever you’re doing, you have to make this work. You’re such an Alice’, which I’ve chosen to take as a compliment. “I feel there’s a character within the show everyone can relate to.” Dr Buttery said the TV show was a classic because of its script and the beloved characters. “The play distils favourite scenes from the show, and my cast is amazing with their commitment in bringing these characters to life,” he said. “That’s the important distinction between screen and stage — the characters are literally brought to life on the stage.” The Vicar of Dibley will be performed at 7.30pm on August 30 and 31, as well as on September 4, 6 and 7, with 2pm matinees on September 1 and 8. Tickets are available online at trybooking.com/CSJWH.