Rats in the ranks

The Rats with Fat Rat.

I think everyone knows the well known mythical story of The Pied Piper who arrived in the German town of Hamelin to rid it of their rat plague but who also tried to take the children in the same evil way when double crossed regarding payment.

The legendary story dates back to the middle ages and the earliest mention of this story seems to have been on a stained-glass window in the Church of Hamelin in 1300. Unfortunately it was destroyed in 1660.

Based on surviving descriptions, a modern reconstruction of the window was created depicting the colourful Pied Piper figure and children dressed in white.

The earliest written record is from the town chronicles in 1384 which reportedly stated “It is 100 years since our children left”.

Although research has been conducted for many centuries, no explanation for this historical event is universally accepted as true.

Noosa Arts Theatre has turned this story into a fun family show written and directed by Sue Sewell, a long time member of the theatre.

We are introduced to the people of Hamelin town coping with their rat plague and meet all the village characters including the Mayor Van Wahring and his wife, Mrs Pofflecake the cook who refuses to believe there is a rat pandemic, the local school headmistress Mrs Banderholme and her treasurer husband Boris, plus Jack the vicar who all try to alleviate the problem.

There are lots of cute rats running around including the very famous Von Rat Family singers.

So, will the town’s rat catcher Freddie Fischer along with his lovely girlfriend Heidi foil the Pied Piper’s wicked revenge plan?

Come along and find out!

The show has a cast of 18, some familiar faces and some new. Half of the cast are adults and the other half kids so it’s definitely a show for all ages to enjoy.

Don’t miss out so get your tickets now at Noosa Arts Theatre, 163 Weyba Road, Noosaville from 21 September to 1 October or visit noosaartstheatre.org.au

Please note: No rats were harmed in the making of this production!