There was an under-appreciated comedy troupe that dominated beachy suburban Newcastle in the 1980s with wacky songs and cabaret-esque dance sequences, but evaporated like sea-spray in the early 1990s, never to be heard from again.
Until now.
The group that launched a few household names in comedy such as Steve Abbott, Glenn Butcher, Maynard, Angela Moore, Russell Cheek, Warren Coleman, Peter Mahony, Jacqueline Amidy, Mikey Robins and more, expressed themselves through song and dance routines in zany ’60s style, entertained the masses around Australia. The blend of high-energy and somewhat depressing tunes, along with audience interactivity while serving up lamingtons and photographs had The Castanet Club filling up RSL clubs, beach clubs and theatres for years, including the occasional television performance.
With various personas dominating the stage in their own time, there was always room within The Castanet Club to do something outrageous, yet look completely normal. From 1982 to 1991, The Castanet Club traveled up and down the coast (without losing their Newcastle roots) and performed at comedy festivals wherever they can get their foot in the door.
After 9 years of entertaining the masses, the club dissolved, and most of the performers stayed in show-biz. To celebrate 30 years since the club closed, a documentary was produced to make sure the heart of The Castanet Club survives.
You can watch The Castanet Club 1991 movie here, read more indepth history on Maynard.com.au, as well as hear Steve Abbott talk a bit about his Johnny Goodman persona in our Profile podcast. If you are located or near Newcastle, you can also check out the exhibit until November 14, 2021 at the Newcastle Museum.
