MPtc was created by Jonty Reason and Donna Johnstone as a Not for Profit organisation (registered with Consumer Affairs Vicotria) in order to combine their respective talents to make classical storytelling accessible to a modern audience across the Mornington Peninsula.
our ethos
Theatre nurtures a flourishing, healthy, connected community by bringing creativity to everyone. By shining a spotlight on important social issues and encouraging discussion and examination of them, we can ensure that values such as safety, physical and mental health and well-being are given the attention they deserve.
Our production of Lady Windermere's Fan was fantastically well received by hundreds of local residents across the Shire.
When asked what they most enjoyed - 90% said great acting, 80% said the ticket price was great value, and 78.3% said the location was convenient.
When asked to rate the importance of a local venue, 66.7% said it was important or very important.
I think this proves that we have the right formula, and with some improvements, we aim to continue bringing quality classical theatre to the Peninsula.
Additionally, "Much Ado" is on the VCE syllabus for this year, which will greatly benefit VCE students across the region.
By touring our shows around the Peninsula, we will be able to make theatre more accessible to more of the community without residents having to drive many miles, often after dark, which will increase road safety in the area.
Mission Statement
Theatre is for everyone.
And every one of us is born with an inbuilt desire, we are hard wired to tell and to be told stories
Ever since the ancient Greek chorus, theatre has striven to be
Bold Exciting Innovative Daring
An inclusive shared experience that awakens the imagination, inspires empathy and demands discussion and is a driver for social change.
Live theatre is truly the greatest sustenance for the human spirit and perhaps for our collective spirit as humans on this crazy planet. Where else can 20, 50, 500 or more people sit together, breathe the same air and share a one-time-only experience?
The audience and performers agree to suspend their disbelief and journey somewhere together. It is a temporary kind of community, and we don’t have enough of that in everyday life.
Artistic Director
Jonty has an extensive career in theatre and film, having done every role imaginable in both disciplines.
Jonty was the founding Artistic Director of London's Royal George Theatre and as an actor, his recent stage credits include:
"a ghost of a future that didn't happen" in Caryl Churchill's
"What if if only" for Melbourne Theatre Company at the Sumner
Emmet in the immersive ensemble play "Rust" for tbc theatre company
Morris in "Present Laughter" Aldwych & Wyndhams
George Wickham in "Jane Eyre" Westminster Theatre
Jonty is available for radio and podcast guest interviews either live or by phone or zoom. Please email your request to talktojonty@mptc.net.au