We’re pleased to add some background on our recently announced “Motherhood, The Musical” actresses.
Erin M. Low: ‘AMY’
Erin has enjoyed working in musical theatre for many years, with her favourite roles being Julia in “The Wedding Singer” and Sister Mary Amnesia in “Nunsense”. In 2013, Erin completed the Full Time Acting Course with the Film and Television Studio International, and a Short Course for Accents at the National Institute of Dramatic Art. She has been lucky enough to work on a short film on the Gold Coast, playing the role of Jackie, under the direction of Darwin Brooks; and last year she had the opportunity to play multiple roles (Idina Menzel, Annie, and Eponine) in Forbidden Broadway’s fundraiser for Rett Syndrome Research. Erin is immensely looking forward to working with Coolum Theatre Players in “Motherhood the Musical”, with director Jennifer Rousset and musical director JR, alongside an amazing cast and production crew.
Amanda Zinn: ‘BARB’
Amanda’s passion for musical theatre commenced at an early age. She studied classical ballet and singing lessons and then successfully auditioned for the Brisbane Light Opera Company at the age of 18. Amanda was also involved in many shows with Savoyards, Shoestring Company and Ignatians in Brisbane during the 1980’s.
After moving to Logan City in 1990 Amanda appeared with Phoenix Ensemble at Beenleigh, where her most notable achievements were the role of ‘Lily’ in the “Secret Garden” and as ‘Laurie’ in “Oklahoma”.
Following her move to the Sunshine Coast in 2006, Amanda joined the Caloundra Chorale and Theatre Company (CCTC) and performed in “Cats” and “The Boy From Oz”.
She discovered a new passion for comedy when she was cast in her first ever play – “Harvey” with CCTC. Other plays with them include “Steel Magnolias” and “Calendar Girls”.
Earlier this year, Amanda appeared with Buderim Theatre Company as part of their bi-annual 3 One-Act Play Festival. Written by the Coast’s Rob Attenborough, “Senses Working Overtime” took out the Best Overall One-Act Play Award and Amanda’s role of ‘Daydreams’ was acknowledged by the Adjudicator.
In July she reprised her role as ‘Sister Mary Leo’ in CCTC’s production of “Nunsense”.
Amanda works full time and enjoys the Sunshine Coast lifestyle with her wonderful husband and three children.
“Motherhood the Musical” is her first production with Coolum Theatre Players.
Lou Lou Mcdonald: ‘TASHA’
Lou Lou is a mother of four and has had a love of theatre, acting, singing and dancing ever since she can remember. Born in New Zealand, she attended drama classes during her school years and has had small roles in the many productions the Drama Club would perform. But her highlight was being involved with “Joseph and the Amazing Coloured Dream Coat”, twice at the ages of 16 and again at 22, with the famous Rob Guest, who sadly passed away several years ago.
Over the years between raising her children, Lou Lou has played many diverse roles in plays, musicals, even television shows. For more than 25 years of her married life, she’s performed with a few Jazz and Blues bands with her husband as guitarist.
She is a talented artist, having operated her own Pottery and Ceramic Studio for over 30 years and provided many local cafes and restaurants with her bright, colourful works. About twelve years ago she had a strong interest in Canvas Art, eventually becoming an in-house Artist for the Hilton Hotel in Auckland.
Having been in Australia for the past seven years, Lou Lou has continued to act, and paint, along with dress designing and is now part owner of a Vintage & Retro business in Cotton Tree.
In Coolum Theatre’s production of Motherhood the Musical, Lou Lou plays ‘Tasha’, a single mother seeking to balance work, her family and a divorce.
Susie Bushnell: “BROOKE”
A move to Brisbane from Far North Queensland in 2008 saw Susie join the music variety/cabaret style production group ‘Guys n’ Dolls Revue’ in 2008, performing in their show annually – thus began her love of the stage. Since then she has performed in the ensemble and leads in both plays and musicals with various theatre company around Brisbane.
Susie has also performed as lead singer for the bands ‘Nixx’ and ‘Set 2 Rock’. This year, for the first time, she competed in the One Act Festival circuit around Brisbane, which has been a wonderful experience.
Between shows Susie enjoys taking off in her motorhome with her husband and two dogs, spending as much time enjoying any doggy friendly beach or river they can find.
This will be Susie’s first production with ‘Coolum Theatre Players’ and she is looking forward to working with an incredibly talented production team, cast and crew.
