Footprint Theatre in Pambula opens its 2010 season with a show that combines drama, verse and song to bring Banjo Paterson's poetry alive.

Audiences are invited to journey back in time to the 1890s, when beards were beards and literary debates raged for months on end in The Bulletin magazine between Paterson and Henry Lawson - in defence of the bush versus the city.

The venue is the beautifully renovated Nethercote Hall between Pambula and Eden, reopened in 2009.

There are 3 shows to choose from: Friday 5 March 2010 at 8.00pm (evening show), Saturday 6 March at 7.00pm (dinner show) and Sunday 7 March at 2.00pm (afternoon show).

All shows have cabaret style seating around tables and include refreshments at interval. Saturday night's show will include a 2 course dinner and damper created by Brian Ahern to round out the bush theme.

In addition to traditional recitations of classics like Clancy of the Overflow, the program includes dramatisations of The Man From Ironbark and A Bush Christening.

The talented local cast includes Kerry Hynes, Robert Buck, Peter O'Brien, Karl Auer, Hugo White and John Samuels. Steve Wilson from Wyndham will also be pumping out bush songs on his concertina to keep the feet stamping.

The concept for Ironbark was created by John Samuels from Lochiel and the show is being directed by Lis Shelley.

Audiences are encouraged to dress up in 1890s style and join in the fun.

Tickets cost $20 for the Friday and Sunday shows and $40 for the Saturday dinner show. Footprint Theatre member discounts apply.

Bookings are essential so call 6495 7160 or visit Footprint Theatre's website at www.footprint.org.au.