By JESSE GRAHAM
PERFORMERS from the Yarra Valley have banded together to raise money for the legacy of a lost friend, uniting people and donating more than $1000 in the process.
Members of Take a Bow Yarra Valley Youth Theatre Group performed a version of Cinderella on 30 November and 1 December last year in dedication to David Sinclair.
David, who was intellectually disabled, was a passionate actor with the group for more than 10 years and died under tragic circumstances last June at the age of 23.
His body was found behind in a vacant lot in Warburton. Police said his death was not suspicious.
The production of Cinderella resulted in the group raising $1081 and 20 cents, which was donated to Interchange Outer East’s Community Balance Drama Group earlier this month – a group David was a part of.
Yarra Valley Youth Theatre Group member Dexter Bourke said the donation will go towards taking friends of David’s in the drama group to see a production in the city.
“David had a massive impact – his personality alone brought a lot of people together,” he said.
“I hope the donation gives other people like David, who may not have the same opportunities, to do things and experience things that broaden their life experience.”
Interchange Outer East’s Cathy Handy, who had worked with David over his time in Community Balance, said the donation was a lovely surprise.
“It was lovely that they supported the drama guys over here,” she said.
“David was a fantastic member of the group – he was very flamboyant and came with a lot of experience in drama.
“He was more like a support than a participant.”
Community Balance co-ordinator with Interchange Outer East Mel Smith said David’s friends in the drama group will go to see a production and later, will get to perform one.
“We’re very excited about it,” she said.
“From a staff perspective, we’re really pleased we have the opportunity to give a great experience to other young adults – it’s good they’re being remembered and included as a result of this.”
