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July 2015 | £3.90 Be inspired by amateur theatre

2015 AGM and Presidential Gala TheatreFest 15 new work initiative Regional news More offers for NODA members

our new Patron prepares for her latest role

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National Operatic and Dramatic Association 15 The Metro Centre Peterborough PE2 7UH Tel: +44 (0) 1733 374 790 Fax: +44 (0) 1733 237 286 Welcome to the AGM edition of NODA Today. As you will see from Email: [email protected] the centre pages of the magazine, we are making some important © 2015 National Operatic and changes to the format of the AGM and Presidential Gala and so Dramatic Association please read that section carefully as we hope to see you in Leeds Registered Charity no: 254640 on Saturday 26th September 2015. Registered Company no: 241572 Patrons: The Lord Lloyd Webber Connie Fisher This edition of NODA Today also includes the draft AGM agenda and a call for resolutions, which is your opportunity as a member of NODA to formally bring proposals to the Annual NODA Insurance: General Meeting for consideration. www.nodainsurance.co.uk 0845 130 1368 And don’t worry if you cannot attend, as you can complete and return the enclosed Proxy Card NODASafe: www.noda.org. to ensure that your views are represented at the AGM. If the Proxy Card is not enclosed with this uk/nodasafemembers edition of NODA Today, please call NODA Membership Services on 01733 374790 who will 0345 257 6632 send another copy to you. [email protected] @NODASafe We are delighted to welcome Connie Fisher as a further Patron of the Association - see page 4 NODA Legal Helpline: for more details. 01733 374 790 (NODA Membership Services) [email protected] There’s also lots of news from the regions as well as details of TheatreFest15 which NODA is supporting to encourage new work for the theatre, a reminder of how NODA Councillor Phil Social Media Barnett took part in The People’s Strictly, and updates on special offers around Britain for all www.facebook.com/National NODA members. OperaticDramaticAssociation @NODAtweets www.pinterest.com/ As usual, if you have any feedback on any aspect of the magazine, please contact us on nodatheatre/ 01733 374 790 or email [email protected]. www.youtube.com/ OfficialNODA Tony Gibbs cover image Chief Executive Copyright Catrin Arwel [email protected] Photography

Design and Production warwickprint [email protected]

Head Office Staff Bronwen Stanway [email protected] Council Dale Freeman [email protected] President NODA North NODA Wales and Ireland John Barnes Gordon Richardson Derek Grattidge Antonia Gray [email protected] Chairman/Vice President NODA North East NODA West Midlands Chris Ingram David Streeter Michael Hastilow Sue Cuthbert [email protected] Immediate Past President NODA North West Youth Development Robert Lumsden Christine Hunter Hughes Phil Barnett Beverly Clarke [email protected] NODA East NODA Scotland Life members Don McKay Gordon Blackburn Derek Grattidge Hazel Allerton Fred Piggford [email protected] NODA East Midlands NODA South East Nanette Lovell Kay Rowan Susannah Herzog [email protected] NODA London NODA South West Jacquie Stedman Nick Lawrence Stephanie Hallam [email protected] 07/15 NODA Limited Chairman Company Chairman of Director Life Member Neil Maidman Secretary Trustees Eric Smart Fred Piggford 2 Tony Gibbs Chris Ingram Director Michael Lees did you noda?

Call for resolutions Even so, it was an amazing achievement by Phil whose In accordance with Rule 27 Business at Annual appearance on the show raised the profile of his NODA General Meeting, particulars of all resolutions Society Kidz R Us in St Ives, as well as amateur theatre more required to be brought before the Annual General Meeting generally. shall be given to the Chief Executive no less than 30 days before the date fixed for such meeting. Any guesses what Phil now uses as his ring tone?

If you would like to propose a resolution, please send it to Tony Gibbs, Chief Executive, National Operatic and Dramatic Association no later than Thursday 27th August 2015 by email to [email protected] or by mail to 15 The Metro Centre, Peterborough PE2 7UH

Phil’s Strictly experience As we reported in the last edition of NODA Today, Councillor for Youth, Phil Barnett, was one of only six inspirational individuals chosen to take part in the BBC’s Red Nose Day celebration The People’s Strictly.

Phil and his partner Janette Manrara, dancing the foxtrot, did themselves proud but were beaten to the glitter ball by Cassidy Little and Natalie Lowe with their dramatic version of the paso doble.

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NODA Today – July 2015 3 NODA welcomes another Patron

NODA is delighted to announce that Connie Fisher has accepted an invitation to become a Patron of the Association, alongside existing Patron, .

In taking up the role, Connie says, “Performance has been a huge part of my life since a very young age and so I recognise the importance of the arts in giving people a creative outlet, building confidence, making friends and having fun. These, I believe, are ingrained in the true spirit of NODA, bringing opportunities to perform to people of all ages and abilities so they can enjoy the benefits of opera and . I’m proud to be a patron of NODA and wish you all the very best in your endeavours in the coming year.”

NODA looks forward to working with Connie Fisher in the years ahead, and will update members on future plans in due course.

4 © Catrin Arwel Catrin © Photography Notice of the Annual General Meeting of National Operatic and Dramatic Association Saturday 26th September 2015 at 2pm at The Carriageworks, Leeds LS2 3AD

Draft agenda 1. Confirmation of notice of meeting 14. To declare the Regional Councillors 15. To elect in accordance with for the ensuing year in accordance Rule 21, Life Members of the 2. Apologies for absence with Rule 23 (c) and (d) Association to serve on the Council 3. In memoriam NODA London 16. To elect the nominees of 4. Minutes of the previous Annual Jacquie Stedman the Council for Honorary General Meeting Membership of the Association NODA Scotland 5. Adoption of the Council’s Gordon Blackburn 17. To declare the election of the report for the period ended 31 President and Vice-President for December 2014 NODA South East the ensuing year in accordance Kay Rowan with Rule 20: 6. Adoption of the Accounts for the period ended 31 December 2014 NODA East Midlands – President: Mr Chris Ingram Nannette Lovell (North East) 7. To appoint the Association’s – Vice-President: Mr Michael Auditor NODA West Midlands Hastilow (West Midlands) Michael Hastilow 8. To declare the numbers of the 18. To declare the election of membership in accordance with NODA South West the Chairman of Trustees for Rule 27(b) (vi) Nick Lawrence the ensuing three years in accordance with Rule 20A: 9. Membership subscription rates NODA Wales & Ireland for 2016 – Chairman: Mr Fred Piggford Sophie Herrmann (North) 10. Alteration to the rules as NODA East recommended to the NODA 19. Any other business membership by Council Don McKay NODA North 11. NODA Ltd Board report Gordon Richardson 12. To elect the Appeal Tribunal in NODA North West accordance with Rule 55 Christine Hunter Hughes 13. The Presidential Address NODA North East David Streeter

Call for resolutions In accordance with Rule 27 Business at Annual General Meeting, particulars of all resolutions required to be brought before the Annual General Meeting shall be given to the Chief Executive no less than 30 days before the date fixed for such meeting. If you would like to propose a resolution, please send it to Tony Gibbs, Chief Executive, National Operatic and Dramatic Association no later than Thursday 27th August 2015 by email to [email protected] or by mail to 15 The Metro Centre, Peterborough PE2 7UH

NODA Today – July 2015 5 © Catrin Arwel Catrin © Photography TheatreFest 15 celebrates new work for the theatre

TheatreFest 15 is set to take centre ‘From the outset we were determined that unable to secure the rights to perform stage internationally as it pioneers Island of Culture should have a life long top-flight shows such as Les Misérables new work for the theatre and is a beyond 2014; legacy was fundamental. or , this is not the case for the partnership between the Isle of The idea for TheatreFest was first mooted Isle of Man. The island is treated as an Man Arts Council and the National after the Island hosted last year’s British All exception because rights holders know Operatic and Dramatic Association Winners’ Festival of Plays finals and it was any production staged here will be of a (NODA) and will be held over the clear that the enthusiasm for TheatreFest high standard, the audiences will be very weekend of October 9th and 10th at far outweighed any concerns over the risk supportive and the show will be performed the Gaiety Theatre on the Isle of Man. factor associated with putting on new work. in one of the British Isles’ most magnificent theatres, The Gaiety.’ TheatreFest 15 will be a five-year project ‘TheatreFest 15 will be a five-year project encouraging and promoting new work encouraging and promoting new work Mr Gibbs said that nowhere else in the UK for professional, amateur and community for professional, amateur and community was the TheatreFest concept being trialled. theatre in its very widest sense. Although theatre in its very widest sense. What’s so ‘The Isle of Man provides a nurturing the Isle of Man will be the hub and exciting is that although the Isle of Man will environment for getting new work off the TheatreFest 15 will be supporting new be the hub and we’ll be supporting new ground. Its arts community has vision and local talent, participation will be invited local talent, we will be inviting participation an Arts Council that’s far more forward- from the UK and across the world and from the UK and across the world.’ looking than any Arts Council elsewhere the project will provide exciting new in the UK. All of which means that with opportunities for artists and audiences. NODA chief executive Tony Gibbs said: TheatreFest the Isle of Man can take the ‘NODA was pleased to become a partner lead in pioneering new productions.’ TheatreFest 15 is set to place the island and in this venture because we’re very aware amateur theatre on an international stage. that theatre – especially musical theatre Mr Lees said TheatreFest would have – in the Isle of Man is of an extremely a different theme each year. ‘For 2015 Speaking at the launch, Isle of Man Arts high standard and we’ve seen how the slavery will be the theme. Slavery’s not just Council vice-chairman Michael Lees said: Island is taking a lead in advocating new something that went on 200 years ago. It’s ‘TheatreFest15 is a brand new concept, a work. Equally compelling was that while an issue that’s still with us and on a global legacy outcome from Island of Culture 2014. many NODA societies in England are scale.

6 TheatreFest 15 will be an evolving and involving project.” Michael Lees, Isle of Man Arts Council vice-chairman

‘One of the elements of TheatreFest 15 Alex Toohey will be casting for local actors Mr Lees said: ‘The legacy of Island of Culture is a new writing initiative that will take and holding workshops, led by director and 2014 has also led to TheatreFest featuring a slavery as its theme and be open not only theatre practitioner Bev Clark who said: world premiere; a professional production at to writers in the Island but also worldwide. ‘There are now more people in slavery the Gaiety Theatre of a new musical, Jimmy The selected work will then have its debut than ever before. Slavery is alive and Mac, by Stuart Brayson who, with Tim Rice, during TheatreFest 16.’ thriving.’ The new piece would, she said, composed From Here to Eternity. Stuart start a process to give its victims ‘a face took part in last year’s celebrations so we’re Other components in 2015 include and a voice’. Lisa Kreisky explained that delighted his experience of the Island’s arts puppetry workshops for schools delivered the devised work – a piece of community scene has inspired him to bring his work to a by an experienced puppeteer. As Tony theatre embracing all ages and abilities – Manx audience. Gibbs explained: ‘Puppetry’s enjoying a would not be scripted but ‘organic’ and had renaissance and is now very much part of the potential to be ‘really exciting’. ‘We are delighted to be partnering with mainstream theatre.’ such a respected body as NODA. To have A new original musical, For Tonight, the association’s support is tremendously There is also to be adevised theatre work, is another strand to TheatreFest to valuable endorsement of the high quality also on the theme of slavery, produced be cast and produced by Stage Door of theatre in the Isle of Man as TheatreFest by Stage Door Entertainment, the theatre Entertainment. Kristene Sutcliffe explained: reaches out to the UK beyond to provide company responsible for staging last ‘It’s a love story – a play with beautiful exciting new opportunities for artists and year’s I Love Culture show. Ahead of the music that’s indie-rock/folk in style – which audiences and drive cultural tourism. production in October the three-strong made its professional debut in the 2014 Importantly, with a five-year life and a team of Lisa Kreisky, Kristene Sutcliffe and New York Musical Theatre Festival.’ commitment to be as community-inclusive as possible, TheatreFest will be an evolving and involving project.’

TheatreFest 15 will be held over the weekend of October 9th and 10th at the Gaiety Theatre.

To register an interest in For Tonight and/or the devised theatre piece contact Stage Door Entertainment, [email protected]

NODA Today – July 2015 7 regionalroundup East

Councillor’s Comments

Another busy year in East the East was marked Committee by the annual AGM and Gala Awards Luncheon at the Burgess Councillor th Don McKay Hall, St Ives on Sunday 10 May. 01480 219181 The AGM was well attended and [email protected] we were able to welcome some Membership Secretary new members to the NODA East Chris Avery Committee. This was followed by [email protected] the Gala Awards Luncheon and Web Manager both events were attended by the June Forway 01480 300409 NODA President, John Barnes and [email protected] his wife. MC Stephen Hayter gave Awards Secretary us a remarkable Gala opening Jane Farr involving all the winners in the 01553 772038 youth category’s, who were either [email protected] live or pre-recorded on film, which Magazine Editor was a real celebration of the young Julia Rymer upcoming talent that we are lucky 07786 620623 [email protected] to have in NODA. Congratulations Youth Advisor to all of the well deserved nominees Zelda Rolfe and winners in their categories, 01603 408017 especially to Ipswich Operatic [email protected] and Dramatic Society, who swept Minutes Secretary the board in District 12 as well as Lavinia Pirret winning the Councillor’s Cup for their 01362 851927 [email protected] extraordinary “As close to the most perfect production that I have ever seen be it Amateur or Professional” production of “”. As well as all of this there were a large number of trade stands on display that were taken advantage of by our members, gathering useful information for their own future productions, and networking with fellow NODA members. My sincere thanks and appreciation go to the NODA East sub committee and all of the Reps and their partners who assisted with the smooth running of both events on the day.

East Districts & I am already in the thick of it as we start the 2015 season and my wife and I have seen some Representatives excellent productions so far and look forward to seeing many more as the year continues. As standards improve it gets harder and harder for the Reps to make the final decisions on DISTRICT 1 Bella Coleman nominees and winners of awards in each current year, but needless to say whether you have a 07540 063946 budget of £250 or £250,000 talent is priceless and all levels of production are judged on their [email protected] individual merits. DISTRICT 2 Vacant Until next time, keep pushing the boundaries, aim high and most important of all have fun. DISTRICT 3 Nova Horley Don McKay 01582 604344 Councillor, NODA East [email protected] DISTRICT 4 N Stephen P E Hayter 01553 671932 [email protected] DISTRICT 5 DISTRICT 7 DISTRICT 9 DISTRICT 11 DISTRICT 4 S Susan Dupont Susan Hartwell Vicki Avery Ann Platten Julie Petrucci 01603 416638 01371 872657 01992 441441 01787 374069 01223 880023 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] DISTRICT 6 DISTRICT 8 DISTRICT 10 DISTRICT 12 Terry Rymer Stewart Adkins Tessa Davies Pamela White 07786 620622 01621 891143 01702 525112 01449 721467 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

8 Civic award for longstanding youth group To celebrate 30 years of successful and award winning youth productions by Gorleston based youth group Dusmagrik, a Civic Award was presented to Mary Carter and Janice Harvey in recognition of their continued dedication to the group. The presentation was given by the Lady Mayoress at a ‘tea party’ in Great Yarmouth Town Hall.

The reception was entertained with a medley of chorus numbers from their most recent production Bless ‘em All at the Gorleston Pavilion Theatre to celebrate the 70th anniversary of WW11 and attended by invited members, friends and guests. Founder, member Maureen Miller or ‘Dusty’Julie as Petrucci she is and so fondly known, puts the Melvynsuccess Barnes of Dusmagrik, and, so many of the young people who have gone on to secure professional careers in the theatre, NODA East district 5 down to hard work but, ‘necessary, National NODA President visited Norfolk for a ‘youth trail’ during the Easter good old fashioned discipline’ a key holidays and attended productions by Sheringham Little Theatre Youth Group ingredient she believes to ensuring ‘Fiddler on the Roof’, DOSYTCo (Dereham Youth Group) ‘Hairspray’, and Norfolk young people learn and develop skills Youth Music Theatre ‘The Secret Garden’. These youth productions demonstrate so for life not just for the stage. clearly that young people are the future of amateur theatre. Dusty is also be looking forward to celebrating her 80th birthday party at the Gorleston Pavilion Theatre in May. NODA East AGM & Awards Luncheon – 2014

The NODA East AGM was held at Lunch was a little late being served, but we Stephen was again MC for the ceremony, Burgess Hall, St Ives on 10th May – made up the time so that we started the ably assisted by Emily Wainwright the third year at this venue, and as Awards Ceremony fairly on time. Stephen (Riverside Players St Neots). Don McKay our Regional Councillor Hayter had arranged to go to every said – we will continue to use this Youth Production nominee’s rehearsal We had a great time, and by making some venue until we get it right!! As a venue to film a few seconds of the young changes in the format, all Districts received Committee we listen to what our people involved – no mean feat when you their awards in record time – 7 awards delegates say, and improve year look at the size of our region! – this was per District plus the Shields for best overall on year to make this the sort of shown as a video overture, then the Youth production – 91 presentations in total, the experience the members will relish Performance winners and representatives President rivalled the Queen for the number and want to attend again. from Shoeburyness High School Southend, of hands he shook over a couple of hours! Bishops Stortford Musical Theatre Juniors Following the AGM, where we welcomed the and The Riverside Players St Neots flooded The Committee would like to thank President John Barnes and his wife Judith, noisily into the Hall and performed a everyone who attended for their support, delegates were free to explore the 14 Trade number specially written by Stephen, with and any concerns that were voiced will be Stands – Sue Dupont having done a great humour, references to NODA practices addressed for next year’s event, which will job in getting so many traders interested – etc – which was very well-received, and take place at the same venue on 3rd April the hall was a hubbub of interest and colour, a good opening to what is, to us, the 2016 – hope to see you there! with many new visitors realising how much highlight of the Awards season! What are there is on offer to NODA members. BAFTA’s anyway? Nova Horley Rep for District 3 East

NODA Today – July 2015 9 regionalroundup East Midlands

Wellingborough Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society – East Midlands 7 Brides Reunion Committee

Councillor For want of something better Kaye Tompkins (Millie) Barry, who continues to direct Nanette Lovell to do on Boxing Day Jonathan Jonathan Reynolds for societies throughout the 01604 712651 (Adam) cutting the Reynolds (a well known local cake in 2015. UK, said that “Realistically if [email protected] performer in Northamptonshire we can get 20 of the cast and Regional Secretary ) posted on Facebook a helpers together – that would Mavis Beddall programme photo of WAODS be an achievement”. So he and 0115 913 9490 [email protected] 1985 production of Seven Brides Rachael were delighted that for Seven Brothers, in which he the final turn out was 50. These Membership Secretary Phil Williams played Adam, with the caption consisted of cast, helpers and 0115 9198545 “This coming year marks the friends – some travelled from [email protected] 30th Anniversary of the show – areas as diverse as Suffolk and Regional Treasurer let’s have a reunion”. Bulgaria to be at the reunion Sue Haydon in Wellingborough. A fantastic 01604 411443 So often these remarks are night was had by all as they [email protected] made and nobody acts upon it; but such was rekindled friendships with people they had Web Manager the response to his post it became obvious that not seen for many years. The attendees saw Michelle Holland there was a great deal of interest in having a get images of the show, enjoyed an excellent buffet 07790 942899 together. With this in mind Barry McIlroy (who including a cake with the show logo emblazoned [email protected] had directed the production) and Rachael Hewitt on it. A toast was made to absent friends and Awards Secretary (one of the brides) decided to organise a reunion. those who were no longer with us. This was a Peter Beddall By now it was mid January and the ideal time fitting way to celebrate what had been one of 0115 913 9490 [email protected] for the event would be the first week in March the society’s most successful and popular shows. as this would be exactly 30 years - so time was Magazine/News Editor of the essence. A date was chosen, a venue and Rachael said “Although this was a non profit Alex Wood [email protected] food booked and invitations were sent out. Some making get-together the money left over after all detective work had to be undertaken to trace bills were paid – together with the proceeds of a Youth Advisor some of the participants as in 30 years people raffle – enabled us to present a cheque of £250 Amanda Hall 0773 9573079 had moved around – some even out of the area. to the Wellingborough Talking Newspaper”. [email protected]

East Midlands Districts & Representatives

DISTRICT 1 DISTRICT 5 Keith Scott-Savage Peter Breach 01332 670239 01406 373359 [email protected] [email protected] DISTRICT 2 DISTRICT 6A & B Joyce Handbury Christine Clarke 01773 745082 01455 610010 [email protected] [email protected] DISTRICT 3 DISTRICT 7 Matt Fry Caroline Jervis 07554 402324 01536 391307 [email protected] [email protected] DISTRICT 4 DISTRICT 8 Anne Key-Huckerby Jenny Chandler 01522 682964 01604 233709 [email protected]

The remaining Brides and Brothers in a publicity shot from 1985.

10 Any memorably funny incidents? Q&A: Anne Key-Huckerby There were at least two amusing Anne Key-Huckerby is a NODA societies in my care, the District was halved moments during pantomimes. stalwart who has just retired after an and Peter Breach took over District 5 while I One was where a small girl sitting admirable stint as regional rep for retained District 4. immediately in front of me at a panto North Lincolnshire in NODA’s East at a seaside venue crawled under Midlands region. Alex Wood asked How long have you been a NODA her chair when King Rat appeared. Anne some questions about her member? Another was when the Woodcutter was time in amateur theatre and work as I can’t remember whether or not I became taking the Babes in the Wood away to regional rep. a NODA member when my first husband do the dirty deed and a child cried out was Regional Rep. Certainly I decided to loudly: ‘Don’t do it!’. When and how did your life in be an Individual Member when I took over amateur theatre begin? the job on 11th January 1989. Of the shows you have reviewed I sang in church, school and college what were the 3 plays ... and choirs in my early years. I first Your area (North Lincolnshire) is the 3 musicals ... that you most appeared on the amateur stage in relatively sparsely populated and enjoyed? 1963 when I took part in a play at some readers will be surprised at The three musicals I have enjoyed the Retford Little Theatre. I was in at least how far you have to travel to see most have been ‘Fiddler on the Roof’, a couple more plays before I moved shows. What’s your longest round ’ and ‘Rose Marie’. [The to Lincoln and joined the Lincoln trip? last one was the very first musical I AODS in 1964. The longest distance I had to travel was just ever saw when I was a small child.] over 100 miles to Mablethorpe and back. The three plays I have found very How long have you served on enjoyable are ; ‘’, ‘The the regional committee? What do you think are the main Haunting of Hill House’ and ‘Good I became a Regional Representative challenges facing amateur theatre Things’.I found having to be out and when Pat Key, my first husband died. It today? about and meeting lots of people was his wish that I did so. At that time The main problems certainly involve were very helpful in my bereavement. this District was part of the Eastern Area. expense. There’s also the need for young I have really enjoyed meeting so many But when the NODA boundaries were people to come forward to help run each like-minded folk and have made many changed my part of Lincolnshire and society and take on more responsibilities. very good friends over the years. a small bit of Nottinghamshire, moved In addition there are so many other calls into the East Midlands Region. Later upon people’s time and amateur theatre Thank you Anne – here’s wishing you (I think it was in 2010) when I had 45 does need commitment. a long and happy ‘retirement’.

Looking Back in Stamford Some memories from one of our oldest societies Stamford Amateur Musical Society to be treated to high tea at the Stamford ‘getting in/getting out’ are old problems. (formerly Stamford Amateur Operatic Hotel. On “Civic Night” all the Borough Stamford’s Picturedrome (the former Corn Society) celebrates its 110th anniversary Councillors attended in evening suits with Exchange) was used for many years. Sunday this year making it one of the oldest their ladies elegantly dressed in evening was spent taking down the screen and amateur dramatic groups in the country. gowns and fur coats. moving it and the cumbersome loud speakers Chairman Adrian Worgan recently chatted into store and building the set – collected to some older members about memorable Standards were high – auditions were from the sidings at Stamford station – often moments in the society’s past. taken in front of the whole committee, took into the early hours of Monday morning. though that did not stop one leading man One of its earliest members was taken to being asked to decline the offer of a role Scenery was heavy and, with many see its first show, The Gondoliers, when in The Rebel Maid as his leading lady scene changes in most shows the stage he was 10. It so impressed him that he thought he was too young. manager’s persuader of a barrel of beer became a lifelong Gilbert and Sullivan for the crew if they got changes done on enthusiast, involved with the society selling That said there was obviously a lot of time usually worked a treat. programmes and working backstage, fun – possibly a little too much – as well. becoming musical director/conductor for The young man above had to go on stage Helping to bring the Corn Exchange back to the society until 1929 when the man who in Die Fledermaus sloshed having drunk its former glory, nominated for NODA awards was to become acclaimed composer, too much wine during a dress rehearsal winning best musical award for The Full organist and conductor – most famously at – presumably preceding a performance, Monty last year, and able to make donations the Proms – Sir Malcolm Sargent took his which sounds like hard work. Stage crews to local and national charities, SAMS has a place on the national stage. don’t change – they love a prank. One of proud history and a bright, positive future. the senior members has never forgotten Adrian reminds us of the importance of being given a glass of ‘wine’ to drink in This is an edited version of an article by a society like his in a small town before a performance of The Merry Widow – he Adrian Worgan who spoke to Grahamme the age of 24-hour entertainment. The manfully finished off the lemon juice which Sorfleet, Trevor Kirk, Margaret Fox, Steve Stamford Mercury printed double page he had, in fact, been given. Watson, John Fox, Duncan, and Jean spreads about forthcoming performances Hodson. An unedited version of the article and between shows on Saturday the cast As some older readers will know, availability can be found via the EMids Facebook paraded through the town on their way of suitable venues and complications with page.

NODA Today – July 2015 11 regionalroundup London Councillor’s Comments

NODA Theatre Summer School – Passionate about Theatre University of Warwick 2-8 August 2018 London Committee Grants available…read on!! Councillor Jacquie Stedman At the 2015 NODA Theatre Summer School we are running the following 020 8529 3318 [email protected] courses which still have spaces available: Regional Secretary Cortina Henderson Choreography, Video Production, Lighting 1 (Nuts and Bolts) and Lighting 2 020 7407 4245 (Whistles and Bells). If you would like to attend any of these courses you will [email protected] be pleased to know that we have made available 8 grants of £200 each for new bookings. Treasurer Pam Armstrong So don’t delay – go to www.noda.org.uk/SummerSchool for an application form. I can 020 8587 1015 [email protected] guarantee you will have a brilliant time! Membership Secretary Frances Chalkwright Jacquie Stedman Councillor, NODA London 020 8926 7413 [email protected] Awards Secretary Josie Shingles 020 8953 6560 Crazy or What? [email protected] Online Team It was in a moment of sheer madness that Whether your thing is singing, dancing, acting, Darren Knight I decided to sign up and attend the NODA directing, sound, lighting, or just plain love of 07891 326 568 [email protected] Theatre Summer School last year – who in their all things theatrical, it’s a unique opportunity Cortina Henderson right mind goes back to school at my age! to come together with likeminded individuals, 020 7407 4245 spend a week totally devoid of worldly stress, [email protected] It was probably one of the best decisions I have and bond with people who share the same joy Magazine Editor ever made – I had a ball and the week was a life of performing and involvement in theatre. Rosemary Roberts changer! 01628 636984 [email protected] I discovered it makes no difference how As a School we had great fun during the week young or old you may be, Summer School has Grand Opera Advisor Bryan Kesselman working on a variety of pieces, these were something for everyone. Will I be going back? 020 8868 8921 showcased at the end of our week. What an You bet!! [email protected] amazing afternoon that was – so much talent on Youth Advisor display both performing and technical!!! Mike Smith Ann Hertler-Smith 01923 267604 [email protected] London Districts & Representatives Conference Co-ordinator Bob Borrow 020 8529 6377 DISTRICT 1 DISTRICT 5 DISTRICT 9 DISTRICT 12 [email protected] Tony Sweeney Please refer to Bill Baynes Rob Bertwistle 020 8654 0682 Councillor 020 8428 0533 01235 764 075 Conference Technical anthony.sweeney@ [email protected] rob.bertwistle@ Co-ordinator DISTRICT 6 noda.org.uk noda.org.uk Sam Webb Andrew Rogers DISTRICT 10 07899 992772 DISTRICT 2 020 8508 9635 Sarah Buttler DISTRICT 13 [email protected] Zena Wigram [email protected] 020 8386 2999 Jeanette Maskell 01895 636028 DISTRICT 7 [email protected] 01635 41791 zena.wigram@ Paul M Holgate DISTRICT 11 jeanette.maskell noda.org.uk 020 8804 9553 Vacant @noda.org.uk DISTRICT 3 [email protected] DISTRICT 11a DISTRICT 14 VACANCY DISTRICT 8 Judith Watsham Gordon Bird DISTRICT 4 Tony Austin 01494 774557 01189 662934 Darren Knight 01895 634288 judith.watsham@ [email protected] 07891 326568 [email protected] noda.org.uk darren.knight@ noda.org.uk 12 NODA Today NODA raise to aims which Smile, Christopher’s were: These panto. the from benefit to received had they nominations the from charities eight chose society The charity. to donated proceeds the and 27 years, past the for home society’s the been has which Theatre, Beck the at days six for ran Beanstalk, the and Jack production, BACCES’ last years. ten past the over tickets of £240,000 approximately totals This apantomime. see to go to unable be normally would who those and charities, schools, homes, care groups, youth local 1992. include These since causes worthy and charitable local 1,100 some to amounting to tickets, offull each production, performances two donating been has BACCES addition, international charities and In projects. and national local, of variety awide to donations £140,000 of in monetary excess in made has society the alone years ten past however, in the calculated, that is been 1971. since charity to has donated What subsequently and raised has BACCES total the about estimates many been have There time. their donating by or terms monetary in whether can, they as charity to much as give to desire their is as do, they everything key to is factor fun it.’ The doing fun have and charity, for money raise ashow, on put ‘To is society affiliated Airways British this of mantra The years. 44 past the for more recently, The Beck Theatre and, York House, Planet, The Hall, Town Chiswick Palladium, The Hall, Albert Royal The including theatres, and halls music of variety a in pantomime annual its with audiences been entertaining has (BACCES) Society Entertainment Crew Cabin Airways British The Charity for BACCES is ‘Onwards &Upwards’ – July 2015 –July Colchester Society for the Blind, Blind, the for Society Colchester adversity; and homelessness facing people young helping charity ahomeless is which Step, by Club, Step Deaf Colchester homelessness; of risk high at or accommodation insecure in homeless, are who those to facilities wellbeing and healthcare offers which House, Beacon Dogs, Guide trauma; suffered hope for whoneeded ex- have servicemen Combat Stress, which provides desperately cancer without devastating side effects; medulloblastomatreat and other childhood to drugs new of development fund to money Nick YoungNick join them on their Facebook page. Facebook their on them join can you Alternatively, www.bacces.com. site web their on found be can production next their on news and doing is BACCES work great the about details More productions. their see to crowds larger even draw will this hopes BACCES and links, transportation excellent with theatre the of distance walking within amenities of selection awide also is alike. There groups theatre and members audience both for facilities modern offers which building Edwardian in abeautiful housed seats hundred six to close with Theatre, Beck The than larger slightly is Palace Watford The aware, be already will you of many As venue. new asuitable for search wide-ranging and along follows This 13th from 17th to 2016. stage will January they which Beauty, production,Sleeping next their for Theatre, Palace Watford The home, new its to moving be will BACCES charity, for year each money more yet raise to desire the and overheads, higher demand, increasing ever With £2,500. and £500 between received Beanstalk the and Jack from charities chosen the of Each occasion. one than more on beneficiaries been have others, suggestions. The Beck Youth Theatre, and so or adozen see might others while forward, put charity one just be might there years, Some varied. and ranging wide be can These reasons. personal for members, society of family and friends or members, society by nominated often are Charities problem alone. health amental face to has one no ensure charity health amental is which Mind, and

13

Photos courtesy of BACCES regionalroundup North

North Committee Councillor Gordon Richardson 0191 586 6350 [email protected] Councillor’s Comments Treasurer Derek Coleman At the time of going to press as the first signs of to encourage societies/individuals to ‘stretch’ [email protected] summer are appearing there seems a bit of a themselves for future performances. The Regional Secretary brief hiatus in productions although show visits nominations have literally just been posted to Pauline Swann are coming thick and fast in the coming weeks. their recipients in the last two days and Facebook [email protected] We held a successful and enjoyable Regional has been full of ‘chat’ about how thrilled various Awards Secretary weekend from March 6th to 8th at the Holiday A.N.Other’s have been to be ‘recognised’ at last Fred Piggford Inn, Scotch Corner. Following the ingenious for their efforts. Audience’s applause is great, but [email protected] quiz on the Friday evening, the Saturday impersonal – our awards bring that ‘personal’ Membership Secretary workshop involved a semi-staged work through touch to say ‘we appreciate your efforts’. Ian M Wells [email protected] of “Spamalot”. Those who took part thoroughly enjoyed the excellent tutelage of Marje Bolam Webmaster I have been visiting a couple of societies Gordon Richardson and came away from the session in raptures recently who have been celebrating special [email protected] about their experience. anniversaries – Caprians in Gateshead th Youth Advisor celebrated their 50 this year and Jarrow their Michelle Coulson The evening dinner was as usual, a great 60th. My own home society, Murton Theatre [email protected] success and was attended by the NODA Group , are celebrating our 90th anniversary Regional Editor president John Barnes and his wife year this year with my own families 80 years of Gordon Smyrell Judith (pictured) who also helped present continuous association with them (my parents [email protected] Programme and Poster awards after the AGM joining in 1935). It is great to see longevity in on the Sunday. We are returning to Scotch societies but make no mistake it is achieved by North Districts & Corner (slightly later) on the 11th to 13th March tremendous background work by committees Representatives next year. and moving with the times. However, it is DISTRICT 1 generally ‘ageing’ committee’s - younger Ray Lowry Our next big event will be the Youth and members need to start taking administrative [email protected] Performance awards to be held at the Rainton roles in societies if we are to survive. They may DISTRICT 2 Meadows Arena on September 12th. These find they get to enjoy it being able to help plot Foster Johnson awards are to celebrate excellence within the future of their own society… [email protected] amateur theatre in NODA North region. Each DISTRICT 3 rep has been keeping an eye out during their Several members of NODA North will be Michelle Coulson [email protected] show visits for societies or individuals that go heading down to the Midlands on August the ‘extra mile’ in providing entertainment for 1st – no it’s not a football match but NODA DISTRICT 4 Peter Oliver the public. After a couple of successful award Summer School 2015 at the University of [email protected] evenings we decided to expand the awards Warwick. Currently we stand at eleven DISTRICT 5 a little this year and there will be awards for members attending which is the highest Michael L. Avery best Musical, best individual and best play/ attendance for many a year including five [email protected] panto/concert in the adult category and best Summer School ‘virgins’. One thing I’ll DISTRICT 6 production, best individual and ‘rising star’ in guarantee them is they’ll all want to go back… Peter Parlour the youth category. [email protected] Well I hope your summer break is relaxing DISTRICT 8 These awards have had their detractors saying and your upcoming productions successful – Alistair Bolton [email protected] that the audience’s applause should be all any see you around and about in the region. actor requires. Whilst I agree that the audience’s DISTRICT 9 Kathryn Curry applause is paramount, the awards we present Gordon Richardson [email protected] are a small token of recognition of excellence Councillor, NODA North

14 North East Society’s A Phoenix 110th anniversary Celebrations

One of the oldest amateur performing groups in the UK, Gateshead Amateur Rises Operatic & Dramatic Society, recently celebrated its 110th year. Music and Blyth’s Phoenix Theatre recently received David Garrett, executive director of the singing filled the air when the group £10,000 from the Sir James Knott Trust, Phoenix, said: “We are really looking forward performed the classic “High Society” kick-starting plans to refurbish its facilities. to some exciting times at the theatre during in April. Of special note is that Ros The theatre, which is celebrating its 50th our 50th anniversary year. The celebrations Norman, only 18 years of age, from Tyne anniversary year and relies on the support will be made even more significant as we can & Wear, conducted the performance. of dozens of volunteers, attracts about make welcome improvements to the building He is the youngest conductor the society 15,000 guests each year. and layout of the venue. have ever appointed.

The funding boost will help create an “These changes will help to strengthen Created in 1905, the society’s first extra space for small-scale performances the delivery of our education and production was The Mikado, which involving local writers, directors and creative programme, and put in place an involved 25 females and 28 males in performers – both amateur and infrastructure that will be invaluable for the the chorus, as well as principals. In the professional. development of the theatre’s future.” 1920’s and 30’s, the society competed in tournaments in the North East to great success, winning the Belmont Trophy six years in succession. The group continued with operas and lighter musicals over the years and set up a junior society in 1991. Lots of the talented youngsters attending ended up New NODA performing in the West End in London… Many congratulations and may the next North Rep for District 1 110 years be just as successful.

Dr Ray Lowry BDS, MB ChB, DRCOG, dinner speaking and comedy performing speaker”, “Confessions of a desperate FFPH, a qualified doctor and dentist, (he took a one-man-show to the doctor and dentist” and “Presentations and completed formal training in public health Edinburgh Fringe) and honorary roles in public speaking: the lessons from stand-up and became an NHS consultant in 1990. worthy organisations. comedy” (all available on ). Ray has Until he retired in 2010 he was a senior enjoyed doing most things connected with lecturer in dental public health at the This may seem an odd mixture but he amateur theatre: he is currently company University of Newcastle upon Tyne and a has penned comedy for radio, television secretary for Tynemouth Priory Theatre but Fellow of the Faculty of Public Health. and the press writing for Dave Allen, The he also does set-building, acting, front- of- Two Ronnies, Kenneth Williams and Don house and script-writing (he and a colleague He has published over 50 articles in Maclean and for such series as Weekending, have written the annual pantomime for the learned press. He was the training Don’t Look Now and the Betty Witherspoon Tynemouth Priory Theatre for nearly ten programme director for public health in Show. He has had comic pieces published in years). The social side of the theatre is the Northern Region and an examiner the Probe, TV Times, the Two Ronnies Book equally important. It all started school for the Faculty of Public Health. He now and other national magazines and he has and developed into a serious condition devotes most of his working time to had a regular column in a newspaper. He at university. He is now an enthusiastic teaching, consultancy, humour, after- has written three books: “Be an entertaining proponent of the movement.

NODA Today – July 2015 15 Sussex By The Sea National Voluntary Arts Week

The Barn Theatre in Seaford, East Gallery entitled ‘Six Artists and a Dog’ with read throughs for ‘Anything Goes’, Sussex, organised and promoted including a design a postcard competition a musical theatre quiz, tea and cake and performing and creative arts events in several art mediums. basic song and dance rehearsals. as part of National Voluntary Arts Week, 15-24 May 2015. Brighton choreographer, Stuart Hall, held An open air teddy-bears picnic and a two dance workshops at the Barn Theatre comedy performance by Britain’s Got The aim of the week is to shine a national rehearsing routines for the flash mobs that Talent semi-finalist, Sam Jones, finished off spotlight on the wide range of creative popped up around Seaford town centre the weeks events which were enjoyed by groups and dedicated volunteers that and professional actress and self-defence over 500 people. The Barn Theatre hopes make up the UK & Republic of Ireland’s instructor Wendy Reed held a confidence to repeat and build on the success of the vibrant voluntary arts sector – encouraging building workshop using both drama and weeks events in 2016. more people to connect with activity in self-defence techniques. their community and discover the joy of ‘taking part’. Rebecca Woolven from Becca’s Face Painting taught the basics of face and The week kicked off with a colourful body art with creative and expressive styles and entertaining music hall variety show and writer Paula Woolven held a writing ‘Sussex By The Sea’ written and directed workshop for school years 3-6 and all by London stage veteran, Graham Tubb at entries were submitted to the Kallikids the Barn Theatre. creative writing competition.

Neighbouring organisation, Seaford Community the Seaford Museum, based Cinema showed the at the wartime Martello film ‘Interstellar’ on the Tower, took part in the large screen at the Barn National ‘Museums at Night’ Theatre, featuring Matthew project with an illustrated McConaughey and Anne talk on Sussex Graveyards Hathaway. by acclaimed author and historian, Kevin Gordon. The Theatre taster open days ‘Last Minute Artists’ Seaford were held for potential new art group presented a week performing arts members long exhibition at the Crypt for Seaford Musical Theatre

16 NODA AGM and Presidential Gala 2015 Your invitation to attend

On Saturday 26th September NODA connections and the first event, namely the details of a good cross section, but by no is holding its Annual General AGM, will not start until the afternoon. The means exhaustive list, of these hotels. We Meeting and Presidential Gala in AGM will be held in The Carriageworks, the do have a limited number of rooms being Leeds and you are cordially invited theatre in which most Leeds based societies held on an allocation basis by The Queens, to attend either in your own right as perform – it is very fitting that NODA, the for both Friday and Saturday nights, at a member of the Association or as a principal representative body for amateur a special rate of £144 per room double member of an affiliated society. theatre in the UK should hold the principal occupancy (B&B) or £132 single occupancy business meeting of its year in a theatre! All (B&B), but these should be booked direct This year the incoming President is Chris members, society or individuals have a right with The Queens – see the list of hotels for Ingram, currently Chairman of Trustees and to attend or be represented at the AGM free contact details. Vice President and he will be installed into of any charge. his new role at the AGM as will Michael Only the Presidential Gala Dinner and Ball Hastilow, Vice President Elect and Councillor In the evening our Presidential Dinner and is being booked through NODA and as NODA West Midlands. On assuming Gala Ball will be at The Queens Hotel, a the incoming President, I am very grateful the Presidency Chris will step down as top, four star, hotel in Leeds and which is to my colleagues on the NODA North Chairman of Trustees and Fred Piggford, accustomed to hosting prestigious events East Regional Committee for administering Past President and Life Member, will be in its superb Ballroom, accommodating up tickets for this event – an application form installed as the new Chairman of Trustees. to 500 guests. After a sumptuous meal we accompanies this invitation. There will also be a full report of the will dance the night away to Todd Miller activities and finances of the Association in and the Joe Loss Showband who have been Anyone can of course decide to make a 2014. Finally the national Programme and an integral part of the NODA NE Gala mini-break of the weekend and Leeds has Poster award winners will be announced Weekend for many years. Indeed Todd Miller many attractions both within the City and in and the various trophies presented. is the very proud recipient of the NODA the surrounding areas which would make Commendation Award for his contribution to such a break an attractive and interesting Traditionally this event has been over two the NE Weekend over so many years. holiday. As you would expect there is a or three days and based in an expensive plethora of information on the web but a hotel but, as most of you are aware, The Queens Hotel is immediately good starting point for planning your visit is Council have agreed a new format for adjacent to Leeds Railway Station and The www.visitleeds.co.uk/ this year with two main purposes in mind; Carriageworks is only a short (10 minute) to reduce the costs to the Association but walk or even shorter taxi ride away. I look forward to equally importantly to reduce the cost of welcoming you all to Leeds attending for you our members. Hotel accommodation is not being booked for what I know will be a through NODA but should be booked direct great day for NODA. This year the event will essentially be one with your hotel of choice and Leeds has a day only. Most delegates, with the exception comprehensive range of hotels, from budget Chris Ingram of those from the more remote corners of to luxury to suit all budgets and all within a Vice President and Chairman of Trustees the UK, will be able to travel on Saturday very short walk or taxi ride of the two main [email protected] morning. Leeds has excellent road and rail venues. Enclosed with this information are 07954 430058

NODA Today – July 2015 17 SATURDAY 26TH SEPTEMBER 2015 Programme for the Day

Time Event Venue Notes

10.30 – 12.00 AGM Rehearsal Carriageworks Auditorium

11.00 – 13.00 Meeting of NODA Regional Carriageworks Meeting Committee Members Room TBC

12.00 – 14.00 Refreshments (cash) Carriageworks Level 1 Bar The Carriageworks does not serve any food but there are many restaurants in the surrounding area.

14.00 – 15.30 AGM Carriageworks Auditorium NE Committee to meet/greet/steward

15.30 – 16.00 P&P Presentations Carriageworks Auditorium

18.45 – 19.30 Reception The Queens – Ark Royal Bar

19.30 – 21.00 Dinner The Queens Ballroom Tables of 10/12, Capacity – up to 450

21.00 – 01.00 Ball The Queens Ballroom Dancing to Todd Miller and the Joe Loss Show Band

01.00 Carriages

Dinner Menu Starters Mains Sweet

Salmon Gravadlax, petit potato Braised feather blade of beef, Vanilla bean cheesecake, salad, rye bread croute, dauphinoise potato, roasted blackberry paint, blackberry and citrus dressing carrots and parsnips, curly kale marjoram compote Carrot and coriander soup, Roast vegetable and Puy lentil ❖ lime crème fraiche, Pithivier, celeriac puree, Tea, coffee and chocolates coriander cress (V) Savoy cabbage (V) ❖ ❖

V = Vegetarian option

18 Presidential Gala Banquet and Dance Booking Form (PLEASE PRINT)

Name

Position

Society Name

Delegate Names Position Vegetarian

Special dietary requirements

Seating preferences e.g. ‘With other members of Little Puddlewick AOS’ or ‘NODA West Midlands’ etc.

Booking Forms to be sent to our Booking Administrator accompanied by a cheque payment covering all delegates (£45 per person).

Applications to be sent to our Booking Administrator: Sally Holmes, NODA NE, 17 Sunnybank Court, Yeadon, Leeds, LS19 7UF (alternatively, email [email protected])

Charity Number: 254640, VAT Number: 232 5945 62

NODA Today – July 2015 19 Leeds hotels Leeds has many hotels within a short walk or taxi ride of The www.booking.com Queens Hotel and the following is list of many of these hotels www.trivago.co.uk and their booking details. It is of course equally possible to use www.tripadvisor.co.uk hotel booking internet sites such as: www.laterooms.com

Hotel Address Phone / Website Distance Hotel Address Phone / Website Distance from from Queens Queens

The City Square, 0845 874 0060 Park Plaza Royal Exchange 0113 380 4000 50m Queens Leeds, www.qhotels.co.uk/ House www.parkplaza.com/ LS1 1PJ our-locations/the- Boar Lane, leeds queens/ Leeds, LS1 5NS

Bewleys City Walk 0113 234 2340 600m – Travelodge, Blayds Court 0871 984 6155 300m Hotel Sweet Street www.bewleyshotels. easy walk Leeds Blayds Yard www.travelodge.co.uk Leeds com/leeds Central Off Swinegate LS11 9AT Leeds LS1 4AD

Crowne Wellington 0871 942 9170 300m Travelodge, 97 Vicar Lane 0871 984 6337 800m – Plaza Street www.crowneplaza. Leeds Vicar Leeds www.travelodge.co.uk short taxi Leeds com/Leeds Lane LS1 6PJ ride LS1 4DL

The Hilton Neville Street 0113 244 2000 100m Premier City Gate 0871 527 8582 1km – Leeds www.hilton.com/leeds Inn Wellington www.premierinn.com short taxi LS1 4BX Street ride Leeds The Granery 0113 241 1000 200m LS1 4AD Double Wharfe www.hilton.com/leeds Tree by 2 Wharfe Premier Hepworth Point 0871 527 9356 Hilton Approach Inn Clay Pit Lane www.premierinn.com Leeds Leeds Leeds LS1 4BR Arena LS2 8BQ

Jurys Brewery Place 0113 283 8800 800m – Ibis Hotel 23 0113 396 9000 800m – Brewery www.jurysinns.com/ short taxi Marlborough www.ibis.com/1/leeds short taxi Wharfe leeds ride Street ride Leeds Leeds LS10 1NE LS1 4PB

Malmaison 1 Swinegate 0113 398 1000 300m Leeds www.malmaison.com/ LS1 4AG leeds Ibis 2 The Gateway 0113 245 0725 1km – Budget, North Crown www.accorhotels.com/ short taxi Marriott 4 Trevelyan 0113 236 6366 250m Leeds Point Road gb/hotel-6002-ibis- ride Hotel Square www.marriott.co.uk Centre LEEDS budget-leeds-centre Boar Lane LS9 8BZ Leeds, LS1 6ET

The Met King Street 0113 245 0841 150m Discovery 15 Bishopgate 0113 242 2555 100m Leeds Leeds www.galahotels.com/ Inn Street, www.discovery-inn- Hotel LS1 2AQ Leeds, leeds.co.uk/ AKA – The LS1 5DY Metropole

Novotel 4 Whitehall 0113 242 6446 200m Quebecs 9 Quebec 0113 244 8989 200m Quay, Leeds, www.novotel.com/ Street, Leeds, www.quebecshotel.co.uk LS1 4HR leeds LS1 2HA

20 Exclusive offers for NODA members at top attractions all over the UK Whatever kind of day out you’re looking for, there’s something for everyone. An opportunity not to be missed this summer! All NODA members can receive up to a massive 50% off at certain venues, and with 30 to choose from, there’s plenty of fun for everyone.

Only NODA members will be able to see the offers! Become a NODA member today and sign in - https://www.noda.org.uk/exclusive_offers_at_top_attractions_around_the_uk

TTA Advert 22/01/2015 12:41 Page 1 THEATRICAL TRADERS ASSOCIATION The Theatrical Traders Association represents all the affiliated traders who supply amateur theatre in the UK. Membership of the TTA means a reputable supplier who maintains the standards set by the Association. COSTUMIERS TICKET PRINTERS Ace Theatrical Costumiers Ariel Company Theatre Costume Hire Dress Circle Costumiers Just Tickets Unit G, Crown Business Park, Dukestown, Tredegar Unit 20, Bolney Grange Business Park, Brook House, Maldon Road, 23 Wood Lane, Sonning Common, Blaenau Gwent NP22 4EF Stairbridge lane, Bolney, Sussex RH17 5PB Witham, Essex CM8 3HY nr Reading, Berkshire RG4 9SJ 01495 350008 | [email protected] 01444 250407 |www.arielhire.co.uk 01376 515500 | www.dresscirclecostumiers.com 0845 126 0631 | www.just-tkts.com The History Bunker Ltd. Molly Limpet’s Theatrical Emporium Ltd. Northern Costume Hire 263a Whitehall Road Leeds, 712 Chesterfield Road, Long Ing Mill, Long Ing Lane, West Yorkshire LS12 6ER Sheffield S8 0SD Barnoldswick, Lancashire BB18 6BJ STAGE 0113 220 5881 | www.thehistorybunker.com 0114 250 0851 | www.mollylimpets.com 01282 817351 | www.northerncostumehire.co.uk ENGINEERING Stage Costume Triple C’s Costumes Utopia Costumes Hall Stage Limited Unit 2, Victoria Industrial Park, Brindley House, Engine Lane, Utopia House, Academy Street, 4 Cosgrove Way, Victoria Road, Dartford, Kent DA1 5AJ Lye, Stourbridge DY9 7AQ Forfar, Angus DD8 2HA Luton, Bedfordshire LU1 1XL 01322 311787 | www.stagecostume.co.uk 01384 893911 | www.tripleccostumehire.com 01307 468231 | www.utopiacostumes.com 01582 439440 | www.hallstage.com LIGHTING AND SOUND WIGS AND MAKE-UP Northern Light Tony Atkinson and Associates Bromiley Ltd. D.R. Easton Ltd. Assembly Street, Lime Kiln House, near Piercebridge, 166 Edleston Road, 1 Dorothy Avenue, Edinburgh EH6 7RG Darlington, Co. Durham DL2 3UJ Crewe, Cheshire CW2 7EZ Peacehaven, East Sussex BN10 8LP 0131 622 9100 | www.northernlight.co.uk 01325 374790 | www.atkinsound.co.uk 01270 255726 | www.bromileyltd.co.uk 01273 588262 | www.derekeastonwigs.co.uk SCENERY, PROPS ETC. Albemarle Scenic Studio The Border Studio HWL (UK) Limited Prosceneium Ltd. Unit C1, Prees Industrial Estate, Riverside Mill, Level Crossing Road, Cricket Street, Denton, Sladen Wood Mill, Todmorden Road, Prees, Nr Whitchurch, Shropshire SY13 2DJ Selkirk, Scottish Borders TD7 5EQ Manchester M34 3DR Littleborough, Rochdale OL15 9EW 0845 644 7021 | www.albemarleproductions.com 01750 20237 | www.borderstudio.com 0161 335 0220 | www.hwltd.co.uk 01706 377226 | www.prosceneium.co.uk Scenery Hire Ltd. Scenechange Studios Ltd. Scenic Projects Unit 2, Usk Way Industrial Estate, Unit D4 & 5, Palmers Brook Farm, The Studios, London Road, Newport NP20 2HZ Park Road, Wooton PO33 4NS Brampton, Suffolk NR34 8DQ 01633 262 728 | www.sceneryhire.co.uk 01983 883930 | www.scenechangestudios.co.uk 01502 575000 | www.scenicprojects.co.uk

Look out for the TTA logo. For help with the supply of anything for your productions contact the TTA helpline on 0845 126 0631 www.theatricaltradersassociation.co.uk

NODA Today – July 2015 21 regionalroundup North East

Opening and Finale The region has appointed two new Youth Advisors to replace Giles Atkinson who relinquished the post recently. David Lockwood has also been elected to serve North East as Representative for District 8 in succession to Committee Jean Taylor. Full profiles will appear Councillor in the next edition of NODA TODAY. David Streeter 0114 235 2490 Julie Webb has now retired as Editor [email protected] of our Region’s pages in NODA TODAY. Julie will continue with her role as Regional Secretary Drama Representative in the Sheffield area and to oversee the publication of Judy McMurray show reports on our website pages. Thank you Julie for all your work in the 0114 236 2430 [email protected] past. Regional Treasurer Geoff Haywood 01226 724925 [email protected] Membership Secretary John Parsons Summer School Awards 01724 334931 [email protected] Web Manager A record number of thirteen grants have been Gareth Carson (Handsworth & Hallam Bryan Craven awarded to the North East Region’s attendees Theatre Company): Actors’ Toolbox 1 0113 252 2514 at the NODA Summer School in August. In Jennifer Newton-Smith (Chapeltown and [email protected] all, at the time of writing this, 20 society and District AOS): Musical Theatre Workshop, Long Service Awards Secretary Individual members from our Region will be Stiles & Drew Pamela Booth attending and all applicants for grants were Viv Siberry-Scott (STOS Theatre 01943 430318 [email protected] auditioned and/or interviewed in February. Company): Singing for Musical Theatre Regional Editor The following were successful: Carla Jane Wade (STOS Theatre Tony Harris Company): Top Hat, Song and Dance for 01377 272063 District 2 Musical Theatre [email protected] Nicky Hollins (IM, The Kings Troupe): Youth Advisors Shakespeare Page to Stage District 7 Jo Sykes Harriet Winstanley (Ossett Youth Theatre): 07967 504554 [email protected] District 3 Top Hat, Song and Dance for Musical Theatre Mark Daniels (Beverley Musical Theatre, Kathryn Mitchell 01254 500919 Hull Musical Society): Lighting 1 and 2 District 11 [email protected] Christopher Cundell (Keighley AODS and District 6 Guiseley AOS): Pantomime North East Districts & Kathy Allen (Grenoside Panto Section): Elizabeth Christine Ingham (Haworth Representatives Pantomime West Lane Baptist AOS): Directing Musical DISTRICT 1 Steve Atkinson (Grenoside Panto Section): Theatre Terry Harrison Pantomime Jay Cundell Walker (Keighley AODS, 01423 870656 Lauren Atkinson (Grenoside Panto Guiseley AOS and Skipton Musical Theatre [email protected] Section): Choreography Company): Actors Toolbox 1 DISTRICT 2 Rosie Abel 07799 832766 [email protected] DISTRICT 5 DISTRICT 8 DISTRICT 11 DISTRICT 14 DISTRICT 3 Leslie Smith David Lockwood Sally Holmes Julie Webb Tony Harris 01226 756654 01484 322868 0113 2192095 0114 2551869 01377 272063 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] DISTRICT 6 DISTRICT 9 DISTRICT 12 DISTRICT 15 DISTRICT 4 Mary Titterton Christine Castle Judith Smith Pamela Booth John Parsons 0114 236 8619 0113 2664672 01274 568305 01943 430318 01724 334931 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] DISTRICT 7 DISTRICT 10 DISTRICT 13 DISTRICT 16 Noel Rigg Jacqui Hartley Geoff Haywood Jennings 01924 466659 01422 706050 01226 724925 01423 797714 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

22 Gala WeekendGala Fun 31Retirement after years member eversince. still ateenager, andhasbeenaconstant productions afterWWIIwhenshewas Operatic Societywhentheyre-commenced Jean joinedtheHuddersfieldAmateur Trustees, Ingram. Chris of Chairman by her to presented was award acommemorative and Bridlington at AGM our at retired area) 8(Huddersfield District for Taylor, Representative Jean to 26 NODA Today NODA was heldattheSpa,Bridlingtonfrom24 North EastRegion’s annualGalaWeekend Northern StageServices,Prosceneium, Studio, JosefWeinberger, LighttheWay, from BevJonesMusicCompany, Border therefore gratefulforthesupport received their waresatTheRoyal Hall.We are number oftradeexhibitorswho displayed Throughout theweekendwewelcomeda Promote Your Society. Audience, CreatingLighting, Singingand Acting inanEnsemble,Developing took placeonSaturdaymorning–Dance, A widerangeofwellattendedworkshops Musical TheatreCompany. a Late EveningCabaretprovidedbyWales Yorkshire DistrictCouncil,wasfollowedby by representativesofEastRiding Hall ontheFriday evening, alsoattended The formalGalaDinnerinSpa’s Royal and ChairmanofTrustees, ChrisIngram. his wifeJudithalongwithVicePresident Association’s President, JohnBarnesand their guests.Theseguestsincludedthe 700 membersofNODA societiesand th Aprilandwasattendedbynearly – July 2015 –July th

Her last main production on stage was “The Her lastmainproductiononstagewas“The homes. hospitals andoldfolk’s including concertpartiesperformingin they performedwithvariousamateurgroups Stan, theyweremarriedin1958.Together It washerewhereshemetherfuturehusband societies bothinprincipalrolesandchorus. on toperformwithseveralHuddersfield (sadly demolishedinthe1960’s).Shewent performed atHuddersfieldTheatre Royal Her firstshowwas“MerrieEngland” and expectations for next year’s event. and expectationsfornextyear’s gathered abletotravelhomein goodvoice brought theweekendtoaclose withthose The traditionalsingingofJerusalem our guestperformerBernieClifton. was entertainedwithcomedyandsongsby de Yorkshire trophyandthelargeaudience also aspecialguestappearanceoftheTour ten pinbowlingcompetitions.Therewas prizes handedtothewinnersofgolfand the Programme andPoster competitionand awards tothewinnersandrunnersupof Sunday morningsawthepresentationof The finalsessionoftheweekendon Joe Loss OrchestraandSingingStars. wonderfully entertainedbyTodd Miller, the weekend’s attendeeswereonceagain Following this,intheRoyal Hall,the Carriageworks Theatre,Leeds in2014. new musicalwhichtheystagedatThe and OperaticSociety)ofSupertown,a by LIDOS(Leeds InsuranceDramatic for twoperformancesinTheSpaTheatre The crowdscameoutagainintheevening Triple CCostumiersandTicket Mart. Scenery Hire,ScenicProjects, Stagescripts, Jacqui Hartley NODA NationalConferencein2009. she wasawardedlifemembershipatthe after 25years’serviceasaRepresentative Bar &65yearstudlongserviceawardand, poster competition.SheholdstheDiamond Secretary fortheRegion’s programmeand on varioussubcommitteesbutmainlyas 31 yearsagoandsincethenhasserved Jean becameaNODA Representative and iscurrentlyActiveVicePresident. Huddersfield AmateurOperaticSociety Jean isalongservingmemberofthe people fortheirownsocieties. several societies,andalsototrainother travels theareaprovidingthisservicefor Huddersfield Make-up Team whichnow activities forming, alongwithothers,the career sheconcentratedonbackstage When Jeanfinishedherperforming Gala Weekend midnightCabaret. Bridlington tobeperformedattheRegion’s Amateur OperaticSocietyandlatertakento teachers andproducedbytheHuddersfield Time Thiswaswrittenbylocalschool Out”. Stan andJuliaintherockmusical“Time in appearance withherwholefamily, Jean, crew. AfterthisJeanmadeonemorestage Julia madeherdebutonthebackstage Card” in1977,whichwaswhenherdaughter 3rd: ,Chapeltown&DistrictAOS 2nd: WhiteChristmas,STOS Company 1st: HotMikado,York LightOpera De Luxe Programme follows: Bridlington GalaWeekend andareas Competition wereannouncedatthe Region’s Programme andPoster The winnersandrunnersupofthe Poster Competition and Programme Company 2nd: HotMikado,York LightOpera 1st: CardsontheTable, PhoenixPlayers Poster 2nd: Cinderella,DinningtonOS 1st: CardsontheTable, PhoenixPlayers Basic Programme 3rd: Billy, HalifaxLightOperaSociety Theatre 2nd: Footloose, SoutheyMusical Theatre 1st: KissMeKate, MaltbyMusical Standard Programme

23

Courtesy of Ian Cornick Photography regionalroundup North West North West AGM & Awards

An emotional goodbye and a James Coombs makes girlfriend dramatic proposal were among Laura Evans’s night extra special, the highlights of NODA North taking to the stage to propose. West’s glittering awards and AGM North West weekend. Committee Councillor Held over three days at Manchester’s Mercure Christine Hunter Hughes Piccadilly Hotel, more than 800 NODA 01772 728817 members enjoyed gala dinners celebrating the [email protected] best of the region’s stage talent of all ages. Regional Secretary Joan Carnaffin 01539 720172 Now in its third year, the youth dinner attracted [email protected] 300 participants, with awards in 30 categories. scene in Burnley – chairman of BLOS for 30 Regional Treasurer years, who never set foot on stage preferring to Trevor Mills Then on Sunday night, the sparkling work in the background. 01477 534843 chandeliers shone down on 530 guests for the [email protected] adult dinner. North West councillor Christine Hunter Web Manager Hughes said: “The NW Awards and AGM Ian Johnston Before the awards got under way, a special 01900 66209 weekend still goes from strength to strength. [email protected] request had been made to the NW committee Awards Secretary by James Coombs. “James’s proposal and the emotion and respect Colin Magenty for Colin were great examples of just how 01942 679606 Attending the dinner with supporting actress much amateur theatre means to people, how it [email protected] nominated girlfriend Laura Evans, James becomes such an intrinsic part of their lives. Magazine/News Editor wanted to propose on stage – and with a mass Anna Mansell of nervous energy he won over the room, and “A big thank you to all who attended, and 07971 193616 [email protected] Laura’s hand in marriage as she said ‘Yes’ to those who did not – you missed a great rapturous applause. weekend, celebrating the sparkling talent we Youth Advisor Jenny King have in our region. 0151 639 4189 And with the final few awards [email protected] to be presented, an emotional “With youth and adult tribute to Burnley Light Opera workshops, although the Society chairman Colin latter could have been better North West Districts Sanderson was paid. attended, the weekend was & Representatives a true celebration of our He had been selected for wonderful hobby. DISTRICT 1 Kevin Proctor the NW region’s special 07771 961865 achievement award for 2015, “I would also like to thank [email protected] but just a few days before the the NW committee for all DISTRICT 2 weekend, Colin sadly died. their hard work in the run up Eddie Regan to the weekend and for the 01772 453885 He had been taken ill after actual weekend itself.” [email protected] the dress rehearsal for the DISTRICT 3 society’s spring show and Christine also invited David Slater 01282 423079 passed away a week later. feedback on the weekend, DISTRICT 4 especially the Monday adult Budge Grounsell Spontaneous applause workshop as it was poorly 0151 639 8328 welcomed a touching speech attended. [email protected] made in Colin’s honour, as a Colin Sanderson, winner of the NW Special Achievement Award. DISTRICT 5 true stalwart of the local theatre Jackie Kay 01204 852410 [email protected] DISTRICT 6 DISTRICT 7 DISTRICT 8 DISTRICT 10 DISTRICT 11 DISTRICT 12 Pat Connor Sharon Drummond Peter Johnson Ed McGee Katharine Carradus Lloyd Bamber 01257 277615 01706 854208 01270 215328 01900 603050 01539 725908 & Luke Taberer [email protected] sharon.drummond@ peter.johnson@ [email protected] katharine.carradus@ Luke: 07906 358645 noda.org.uk noda.org.uk noda.org.uk Lloyd: 07971 544242 [email protected] 24 festival winner: Accrington Adult Alexandra Ward Neston Players took the title in the NODA NW with the trophy for Pals, Neston Players; Best Drama Festival, organised and awards best direction artistic direction of a musical: presented by Christine Hunter Best supporting male of a drama. Lee Brennan, Jesus Christ Hughes, regional councillor. actor in a musical: Andrew Superstar, Mossley AODS; Tuton, George, Aspects Best artistic direction of a Of Love, Preston Musical drama: Alexandra Ward, Comedy; Best supporting Tom, Dick and Harry, Carlisle female actor in a musical: Green Room Club; Best Louise Colohan, Mary pantomime: Robin Hood, Magdalene, Jesus Christ Shavington Village Festival Superstar, Trinity Amateur Committee; Best concert or Operatic; Best poster: The Drowsy review: Broadway Nights, West End Lights, Chaperone, Southport Spotlights; Best Burnley Light Opera Society; Best G&S supporting male actor in a drama: Tom production: HMS Pinafore and Trial By Lane, The Bishop Of Lax, Pools Paradise, Jury, Hornby Occasionals; Best drama: Of Oz, HEY Kids/Heywood AODS; Best St Ambrose Players; Best supporting Of Mice And Men, Centre Stage Theatre choreography: Vicky Royle and Fiona female actor in a drama: Rebecca Hatch, Company; Best musical: The Drowsy Thompson, High School Musical, Pendle Alice Tinker, The Vicar Of Dibley, Encore Chaperone, Southport Spotlights; Special Hippodrome Youth Theatre; Best musical Productions; Best basic programme: achievement award: Colin Sanderson. direction: Paul Blake, The Phantom Of The Accrington Pals, Oswaldtwistle Players; Opera, Walney Junior AOS; Best leading Best male comedy performance: Ian male actor in a musical: Jack McNeill, Dean-Boardman, Tiger Lily, Peter Pan, SS Youth Awards Don Lockwood, Singin’ In The Rain; Best Simon and Jude ADS; Best female comedy Best supporting male actor in a musical: leading female actor in a musical: Emily performance: Hayley Dent, Kate Monster/ Andy Lee, Judas, Jesus Christ Superstar, Hopkins, Cat In The Hat, Seussical The Lucy The Slut, Avenue Q, Cast Theatre The Phoenix Youth Theatre; Best Musical, Mid Cheshire Musical Theatre; Company; Best staging: The Haunting, supporting female actor in a musical: Amy Best leading female actor in a drama: Blackburn Arts Club; Best choreography: Dewsnip, Fantine, Les Miserables, CODYS Elyssia Cockshott, Prospero, The Tempest, Louise Barron Jones, , HAWK; Productions; Best supporting male actor Kirkham Grammar School; Best artistic Best standard programme: , in a drama: Mason Forrest, Sebastian, direction of a musical: Stephen Hughes- Blackburn Musical Theatre Company; The Tempest, Kirkham Grammar School; Alty, SONG, Joseph And The Amazing Best musical direction: Joanna Jeffreys, Best male comedy performance: Chris Technicolor Dreamcoat; Best youth White Christmas, Lancaster Red Rose; Wilson, Dracula Spectacular, Genghis, production: The Phantom Of The Opera, Drama festival runner-up: Shakespeare Stage One 2000; Best female comedy Walney Junior AOS. In Hollywood, Guilden Sutton Players; performance: Megan Best leading male actor in a musical: Carrick, The Wizard Peter Norris, Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, Of Oz, The Lion, Jekyll And Hyde, Clitheroe Parish That’s Entertainment; Church Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Best male youth Society; Best leading female actor in a in an adult musical: Alexandra Howarth, Cassie, production: Sam , Hyde Musical Society; Cain, Billy Bigelow, Best leading male actor in a drama: Carousel, Farnworth Malcolm Cooper, Jim Hacker, Yes, Performing Arts; Best Prime Minister, Altrincham Garrick; Best female youth in an leading female actor in a drama: Chris adult production: Wynne, Miss Parmenter, A Fete Worse Amy McDonough, Than Death, SS Simon and June ADS; Rizzo, Grease, New Best deluxe programme: Little Shop of Mills AODS; Best The cast of Grease, by HAWK, presented Horrors, Manx Operatic Society; Drama staging: The Wizard the adult awards’ night cabaret.

NODA Today – July 2015 25 regionalroundup Scotland

NODA Scotland Website and Facebook The NODA Scotland Web Manager will be delighted to receive contributions to the NODA Scotland section of the website. Here you will find all sorts of Scotland useful information including news and show listings which can be submitted Committee as far in advance as you have made plans. Councillor Gordon T Blackburn Don’t forget we also have a very active Facebook page – please spread the 0131 312 6644 word about this to your members. [email protected] Web Manager Items for inclusion on either the website or Facebook page should Stuart Dick be emailed to [email protected] 01698 253706 [email protected] Magazine/News Editor Alan C Jones 0141 633 0544 [email protected] Youth Advisor Craig Inglis GAMA’S Programme 07751 642521 [email protected] Success

Scotland Districts & After being awarded the Wyld Trophy (NODA Scotland) Representatives for their Fiddler On The Roof programme from 2013, Glenrothes Amateur Musical Association were delighted DISTRICT 1 to win the Owen Peacock Trophy at the NODA National Ian M. Gray Conference in the Deluxe Programme category. 0141 942 5755 [email protected] Pictured here is Bruce Davies, programme designer, DISTRICT 2 Roger Buist receiving the award from NODA National President, John 01382 739743 Joan Bell receiving a 25 Year Long Barnes, while Martin Butler, GAMA President, is seen with [email protected] Service Medal from John Barnes, the Award Certificate. NODA President DISTRICT 3 Elizabeth Donald Much work went into the programme and we were 01324 637791 indebted to Ken Wilkie for his wonderful photography, [email protected] Now let the loyal Nancy Butler, Claire Mackinlay and Sandra Davies for DISTRICT 4 T. Davies Brock lieges gather round their proof-reading and editorial contributions and to 01292 441199 Bruce for putting it all together. [email protected] On a cold Thursday evening in DISTRICT 5 February, Dunfermline G&S Society GAMA are currently preparing to present South Pacific at David Black were honoured by a visit from the end of September. 01698 459479 John Barnes, the NODA National [email protected] President for 2014–15, who travelled DISTRICT 6 from his home in East Sussex for Bruce Davies, programme designer, receiving Dorothy Johnstone the award from NODA National President, 0131 445 4685 one of their performances of The John Barnes, while Martin Butler, GAMA [email protected] Gondoliers. Marco & Giuseppe’s President, is seen with the Award Certificate. DISTRICT 7 thrones were duly left out to provide a Mike Pendlowski back-drop for those of the splendidly- 01383 623708 attired cast [email protected] to whom DISTRICT 8 DISTRICT 10 John had Deborah Lyons Ron Stewart kindly 01450 377577 01356 622324 [email protected] [email protected] agreed to present DISTRICT 9 DISTRICT 11 Douglas Clark Stewart Cameron long-service 01569 766169 01387 264005 awards. [email protected] [email protected]

26 A quarter century and hopefully a quarter of a million pounds!

Edinburgh-based musical group Showcase year since 1990, with all proceeds going with a production which is usually in excess is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year to Macmillan. Our shows are like a revue of 25 numbers. While everyone involved – and during that time we have already of musical theatre numbers, popular songs performs because of their love of the raised more than £223,000 for Macmillan and music from films, all put on by a group theatre, there is also a very serious side to Cancer Support. of very capable, enthusiastic amateurs. We our hobby, raising money for the work of are incredibly lucky to have an extremely Macmillan Cancer Support. It is a cause Showcase was founded in 1990 by Bobby talented musical director who writes all the close to all our hearts and performing with Harvey and John Wright with the sole purpose choral arrangements and orchestrations Showcase allows us to do something we of raising funds for what is now known which culminate in our unique Showcase love, while supporting this very important as Macmillan Cancer Support; both had sound. In the past our repertoire has cause, and we genuinely believe that personal experiences of cancer in the family included everything from opera to rock, every person who walks through the door and had a great deal of help from Macmillan. to Led Zepplin, of the theatre and buys a ticket to one of Using their connections they gathered together Carmina Burana to Bohemian Rhapsody our shows is contributing – they’re helping a group of singers, dancers and musicians and often in eight part harmony. make a difference to someone’s life; what with the idea of putting on a production can be more important than that? With this but based on highlights from various musicals. Over the years we have had in excess of year being our 25th anniversary it would be That very first production boasted its band 300 performers taking part, youngsters from the icing on the cake for us to celebrate a call, technical and dress rehearsal, matinee university who might join for a few years, as quarter of a century by reaching a quarter and main performance – all in one day and well as people who have been in Showcase of a million pounds donated to Macmillan. everyone involved had a ball. The rest as they since the beginning and whose children say is history! now come along as well. Each and every Showcase’s next show will run at the Church one of our cast gives freely of their time and Hill Theatre, Edinburgh, from 22 to 26 The company has staged a production in talents and makes a huge commitment to September. For details, including how to get the Church Hill Theatre, Edinburgh every learn the music and movements associated tickets, head to www.show-case.co.uk.

well-known patron, Britain’s Got Talent Ups & Downs – Our Story star Edward Reid. Edward has brought our club lots of recognition over the years and In 1995 two local teachers and an instructor their chance to shine under the excellent helped us to reach a much wider audience, from the field of Special Education by the tutelage of our dedicated production even inviting us along to perform with him names of George Barclay, Elaine Kirkwood team. Recently we became an independent at some of his personal appearances. and Theresa McKinnon all came together charity in our own right. to set up a unique theatre group. What Our whole cast was filmed singing out made this theatre group so special was that The club has achieved much, both on and for Pudsey as part of Children in Need it was set up for young people with Down’s off stage. In 2009 Ups and Downs were the in 2011. A selection of our cast was also Syndrome, who had a talent and a love of first Scottish theatrical group to bring back chosen to record a series of sketches for music, to do what they do best. to Scotland the NODA President’s Cup and the BBC Alba documentary Truasadh. The in 2011 we were once again awarded the Gaelic documentary was filmed to look The club was set up under the umbrella Utopia Costumes Youth Award. We have at and dispel some of the misconceptions of Down’s Syndrome Scotland, and also been extremely fortunate to attract the surrounding the Down’s Syndrome. initially around 40 youngsters with Down’s attention of many famous faces – Michelle Syndrome and their brothers and sisters, McManus and some of the cast of River City The Ups & Downs Theatre Group provides signed up to be part of the club. Twenty have all paid us a visit during our rehearsals. young children and adults with Down’s years on the founders of the club could Judy Murray, Gary Hollywood and Stuart Syndrome with a whole range of positive never have imagined just how successful Brayson all came to see Take 19 and back in experiences: following instructions, our club has become. Our club has the day our cast even shared the stage with working together towards a common goal, continued to increase throughout the the Singing Kettle star Gary Coupland. overcoming fears and negative feelings, years and has grown to a cast of over exploring new talents and perfecting new 70 members, all of whom are eager for In 2011 Ups & Downs welcomed its first skills.

NODA Today – July 2015 27 regionalroundup South East New Playwright

South East at Ifield Barn Committee Councillor Kay Rowan In March this year Ifield Barn Theatre to follow up my character’s mysterious 01420 83076 Society performed Flowery Shirts & disappearance. That was when the [email protected] Strange Relations to packed houses director suggested I write a play. So Regional Secretary every night. Never heard of it? I’d I did. Priscilla Blanchard be surprised if you had. This drama/ 01892 669719 comedy set in 1960s in a family-run I’d written a few things for local [email protected] guesthouse is the sequel to Miniskirts charities, but never a 2-act play for Regional Treasurer & Revelations which won a NODA SE a ‘proper’ stage. It was an exciting Keith Smithers 01903 202 000 Accolade of Excellence last year. prospect. First I thought about what [email protected] would particularly suit the Barn and its Membership Secretary Let me introduce myself – I am Margaret members, what resources we have, (in common Marie Coltman Graham, a recently retired yoga teacher and a with many small theatres). Not too many male roles 01202 581385 published author on my subject. And no, I’m not – men are often in short supply; strong female [email protected] sitting at my laptop in full lotus. characters – we’ve plenty of those; age ranges that Web Manager encompassed everybody - youthful, middle-aged Stuart Ardern 023 8029 3120 I joined Ifield Barn Arts Centre in 2010 ‘just and older members; a final scene that gave shyer [email protected] for the coffee mornings’. I’d recently lost my performers the chance to enjoy a walk-on part. Awards Secretary husband and was looking for distraction. It Margaret Coltman certainly was that! The Barn is often referred Now for the plot. I was lucky in that my unusual 01202 658380 to as a ‘hidden gem’ – a unique collection of upbringing - growing up in a charitable ‘Home [email protected] buildings, some parts over 700 years old. for the Elderly’ which my parents had founded - Magazine/News Editor provided a wealth of characters, anecdotes and Gregory Gower Soon I found myself making the coffee, then situations, to draw on. Not to mention all that 01323 737813 [email protected] selling programmes, eventually acting on stage teenage angst, romance and heartbreak. How (including a Rapping Fairy Godmother), props, glad I am that I kept a diary through those years. Youth Advisor (East) Amelia Regnante prompting, SM, and then AD for a wide variety of My tattered old exercise books have been a little 07840 882944 productions. A bit scary – but I loved it. Does this goldmine – just don’t ask to read the originals! [email protected] progression sound familiar to NODA members? Youth Advisor (West) First I created the characters – feisty cook Grandma, John E. Thomas After playing Angela in Disposing of the Body I secretly sexy Mum Chris, rebellious teenage 023 9225 6443 wrote a variety of weird and wonderful scenarios daughter Penny, plus Biker brother Mick; Ivan [email protected] Assistant Regional Rep (East) Phillip Hall 01273 473500 [email protected] South East Districts & Representatives Drama Advisor Margaret Fields DISTRICT 1 DISTRICT 6 DISTRICT 11 DISTRICT 16 01962 775 438 LANCE MILTON Ben Clark Barbara Fairclough Rita Boffin [email protected] 07803 896871 07718 087438 01489 690140 01983 731491 [email protected] [email protected] barbara.fairclough [email protected] DISTRICT 2 DISTRICT 7 @noda.org.uk DISTRICT 17 Brenda Gower Doreen Grierson DISTRICT 12 Stuart Ardern 01323 737813 01474 813611 Gloria Smith 023 8029 3120 [email protected] [email protected] 01932 866323 [email protected] DISTRICT 3 DISTRICT 9 [email protected] DISTRICT 18 Anne Lawson Jose Harrison DISTRICT 13 Betty Haslam 01424 428693 01903 892248 Marie Coltman 01420 83532 [email protected] [email protected] 01202 581385 [email protected] DISTRICT 5 DISTRICT 10 [email protected] DISTRICT 19 Gordon Harris John E. Thomas DISTRICT 14 Jon Fox 01634 402323 023 9225 6443 Chris Horton 020 8668 6768 [email protected] [email protected] 01256 882 426 [email protected] 28 [email protected] (confidante and art- teacher guest); bossy lightened the mood and we’d see the by the Production Committee, tweaks, Aunt Doris and a nosey Health Inspector. audience leave with a smile on their faces. approval and open auditions. Set in the Then I worked out a beginning, middle and autumn of 1968 with some of the original an end (including a traumatic finish to the first But I’m leaping ahead. Were there cast and a few new faces, rehearsals got Act and a startling reveal for the final scene). I hitches? Of course there were. The under way in January for the production in already had the set in my head – the kitchen/ original Ivan dropped out just a couple of March. living room of our Victorian mansion Home weeks before the show. Fortunately Craig, – right down to the Aga and the Marley floor from nearby Manor Theatre, stepped in Could we repeat our success? A hard tiles. This would become the Greenfield and made a brilliant, sensitive Ivan. Our act to follow we were told. But it seems Guesthouse. And of course there would be SM literally broke a leg (on a boat, not the we’ve succeeded – 100% sell-out of all the ever-popular 1960s fashions and music. A stage) just before first night. Poor Deidre. 5 performances, and a DVD afternoon narrator, Present Day Penny could be to one again. Although a sequel, I’d written side of the stage reading from her teenage Setting up a dramatic 1930’s cameo Flowery Shirts so that it could stand on diaries. On the other characters would sit scene was tricky – the answer was a grainy its own too – something that NODA on the kitchen doorstep among the potted b/w ‘film’ projected onto the back wall of Councillor Kay Rowan mentioned in herbs taking their elevenses and sharing the ‘kitchen’. Ifield Park Home (still going her glowing report. I’m hoping that my confidences. strong) kindly allowed us to film in the experience will encourage others to write original living room for ambience. the script that is lurking in the back of their Having written the play – would it work mind, and that our theatres will support on stage? And would the Production I found the teamwork of cast and crew, such new productions. Committee be willing to take the risk promotion, box office – everybody – so of this unknown quantity? There were impressive. The enthusiasm and, well - So what now? Flowery Shirts is in the process several stages to negotiate - first a read- fun – came across. The skill of volunteers of being published as a glossy play book, as through, which confirmed it could work is incredible. I’ve been asked how we before. The DVDs of both plays seem to be and showed where minor changes were managed to hoist an AGA onto the stage. doing the rounds locally. There’s a 7 minute needed –extra time for costume changes ‘With great difficulty’ someone replied -well, publicity trailer of Miniskirts made and on for example. This was encouraging. Then you don’t like to spoil the illusion. All credit Google, and one of Flowery Shirts in the a wait of months giving all PC members to set builder Brian B and painter Brian E. offing. Both Phillip and Kay have said that a chance to read the script. A few tweaks in their opinion these plays are eminently were suggested, some of which were very The sell-out success of the 4 shows suitable for lots of theatres, and I am helpful such as combining some scenes, exceeded all my expectations. We even hoping that the enquiries that are coming and working out a way to demonstrate had to put on a showing of the DVD for in will bear fruit in the future. A drawback is a flashback to the 1930s. Eventually, those who couldn’t get in. The NODA SE that I’m not experienced in managing the much to my excitement, it was agreed the Rep Phillip Hall attended first night and publicity side of things. For this reason I’m production could go ahead and a date set wrote an enthusiastic report. ‘This play has especially grateful for the praise, support for October 2013. everything’ he repeated when presenting and encouragement I have met with through our production the Accolade of Excellence NODA and its officers. I had worked with Janine Robins as AD at NODA SE Awards ceremony at the and knew we made a good creative team 2014 AGM. That was such a proud and And yet again I’m being asked ‘What (although we did nearly get chucked out of unexpected day. But that wasn’t the end of happens next? Does Penny marry hippie our local pub for laughing so much as we it. People wanted to know more about the Derek? Does Grandma carry on baking envisaged the play’s ending). Once chosen, Greenfield family. ‘What happens next?’ her rock buns? How else can Mum shock the cast seemed to click as a family straight they kept asking. So I her family? And what on away and although most of the characters started writing the sequel. earth was their reaction are a mix of real and imaginary, to see my This time I’d find Grandma to Aunty Doris and Grandma come to life in front of my eyes as or Teenage Penny waking the Health Inspector’s she confronted the Health Inspector daring me in the early hours, all reveal?’ to touch her gravy – that was a strange, excited, telling me what emotional feeling. And it wasn’t just me. they wanted to get up to. Oh dear, I hadn’t There were comments on the lines of ‘Did I had to give in and write planned to make it you know my Granny? She was just like it down or I’d get no rest a trilogy – I’ve quite that!’ ‘My brother’s a pain – same as Mick’. and ‘wake up feeling different things in mind. People seemed to identify with this family, awful’ as Teenage Penny But you never know. and find them endearing. Others confided so often writes in her diary. Grandma may well wake to me how they had lived through similar me up at 3am any time difficult experiences – the shame of divorce; Flowery Shirts & Strange soon – and give me all the frustrations of early 60s conformity Relations went through the the answers! and suppressed sexuality. Our play wasn’t now familiar process of heavy going though - the music and laughter a read-through, scrutiny Margaret Graham

NODA Today – July 2015 29 regionalroundup South West NODA South-West Awards Evening 2015 2015’s NODA South West Awards feel. To be nominated was an achievement in itself South West th Committee Dinner on 28 February was and the winners on the night can we found on the at the Marriott Hotel in the centre of South West section of the NODA web-site, through Councillor Bristol. It was another fantastic evening, celebrating www.noda.org.uk/south_west_awards. Nick Lawrence everything great about Amateur Theatre in the 01404 758463 [email protected] South West. However, it really was Amateur Theatre itself that was the real winner, showing the real depth and Regional Secretary & Pantomime Liaison Once again there was good company, good range of talent in the region. Iain Douglas food and a terrific venue. John Barnes returned 01803 290371 in his capacity as President of NODA this year Thanks to Graeme Savage, Ian Goodenough and [email protected] to present the awards, with excellent supporting the NODA South West Committee Organising Regional Treasurer video and music effects, assisted at short-notice Team for putting together a wonderful event, as we Adrian Vanstone by Soundbase UK, giving it a real professional now look forward to the event again in 2016! 01395 272 803 [email protected] Membership Secretary Over 400 people enjoyed an evening celebrating the Graeme Savage very best of Amateur Theatre in the South-West! 01179 866 516 [email protected] Web Manager Stuart Lyddon 07827 317 532 [email protected] Awards Secretary Frankie Telford 01453 842 695 [email protected] Regional Editor Matthew Heaton 01249 713 743 [email protected] Youth Advisor & Conference Administrator Lynne Caygill 01395 272 577 [email protected] Youth Representative Phil Barnett 01736 796 171 [email protected]

South West Districts & Representatives

DISTRICT 1

VACANT. Refer to Phil Courtesy of Stuart McPherson Barnett DISTRICT 2 Kathy West DISTRICT 5 DISTRICT 8 DISTRICT 10 DISTRICT 13 01637 880622 Graham Liverton Trudy Dyke Petra Schofield Tony Winstone [email protected] 07855 562 621 01935 428 382 07966 552 853 01179 442 044 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] DISTRICT 3 Michael Simpson DISTRICT 6 DISTRICT 8A DISTRICT 11 DISTRICT 14 01752 330 159 Janet Elworthy Jo Wilson-Hunt 0VACANT. Refer to Nick Graeme Savage [email protected] 01823 680 117 01823 663 257 Lawrence 01179 866 516 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] DISTRICT 4 DISTRICT 12 Iain Douglas DISTRICT 7 DISTRICT 9 Brian Oliver DISTRICT 15 01803 290371 Ian Goodenough Sue Pomeroy 01202 424 645 Frankie Telford [email protected] 07967 217 685 01278 662 181 [email protected] 01453 842 695 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

30 Courtesy of The Palace Hotel ★ ★ ★ NODA Today NODA enthusiastic an us gave residents fifty around where elderly the for home Joseph’s St at firstly concerts, We three gave outstanding. was hosts our by shown hospitality and friendship The time. amazing an had have “We said Spalding Monica leader Group there. perform to Vedras Torres visit to singers the invited delegates Portuguese the Twinning of aresult as and years 50 celebrate to visited towns Wellington’s twin three in the year, when representatives from earlier performed had They organisations. different of events fundraising and social for and Homes in Residential community, in the out entertaining for Somerset of area Taunton the Deane throughout known well is Group The Vedras. Torres Portugal, in town twin Wellington’s to visit day asix from returned just have Group” “Touring Operatic Society’s Association Arts Wellington of Ten members Somerset Group ‘On-Tour’ in Portugal ★ The weekend covers: ones. old meet and friends new make to and environment friendly and in arelaxed skills theatre of range your enhance to chance the venue, with a lovely 2015. at weekend September agreat is It 12th &Sunday13thTorquay Saturday on in Hotel Palace the at Weekend Workshop Annual its holds South-West NODA Weekend! South West Annual Workshop WelcomeEveryone at the ★ ★ ★ ★ facilities! Hotel’s many the of use full as well As followed by aDisco by followed Dinner, Presidential Saturday’s coffees provided throughout Saturday Saturday throughout provided coffees and teas with days, both on Lunch and Breakfast and Bed Sunday Saturday/ two days two the across 3Workshops of A choice – July 2015 –July The Group and two of their hosts at Peniche at hosts their of two and Group The have a lovely weekend by the sea! the by weekend alovely have and fun in the join and Come South-West. Noda to restricted not and members all to NODA open is weekend This org.uk lynne.caygill@noda. at Caygill Lynne Mrs. co-ordinator: conference our from obtained be can details More wish. you if arrangements own your make always can you but evening, Friday from hotel the at over staying for available is rate A special puppetry. and wardrobe workers, youth members, committee personnel, backstage for courses other We have also productions. running and organising into insight her share will who End West the from foot hot Spiller Becky and numbers company exciting some on work will who Director Musical acclaimed highly the Stevens voice; your use Kathryn to how on session amazing so lead will who School Summer from McGorran Cathleen tutors: as welcome to delighted are we year This ovation and again had had again and ovation astanding received again they sang group Society Operatic the When English. and Portuguese in both songs of repertoire their with audience the entertained who town’sthe Youth Choir, with join group the saw concert final The Mia”. “Mamma in singing us join to stage on came actually audience the of Some given. duly was which encore an demanding noisily concert, the of end the at ovation astanding us gave who audience the of reaction the at amazed and delighted or on 01395 on or 272 577. 150. We were around numbering and teachers, parents pupils, for school,secondary Nogueira Henriques at was concert second reception. The The Group preparing to sing at the Residential home Residential the at sing to preparing Group The

Jo Wilson-Hunt Jo in France. Lillebonne and in Germany Immenstadt of towns twin other the include to on go will “Touring” its that hopes now Group The surf. rolling and beaches sandy spectacular its with Cruz, Santa of resort seaside the to athird and Obidos of town Medieval beautiful the and Peniche of town coastal the to trip asecond city, beautiful this round sightseeing enjoyed group the where in Lisbon, aday with arranged, been also had visits of programme A busy in English. and in Portuguese sing to combined singers of groups two the Finally encore. an give to Lorraine show Lorraine the on interviewed Girl Irene Holland Tiller Tiverton’s of her favourite red wine! red favourite her of atipple after especially kick, high odd the do to known still is and retiring of intention no has she says Medal Commendation aNODA of aholder also Irene, week. a days five teaches still she where Arts, Performing and Dance of Tree Willow Centre the school, dancing her for locally known well- become has Irene years recent In Mail. Daily the and Gazette Devon Mid the by reviewed extensively also was book The Cole. King Nat and Sinatra Frank of likes the with mixing globe, 1940s the travelled and in the Girls” Tiller “The troupe dance famous world the joined 84-year-old dancer. The aprestigious as life her all about reveals -which Girl” aTiller of “Tales book new her promoting Garraway an interview with Kate Kate with interview an in show the on featured was Holland, Irene programme. Lorraine ITV’s on interviewed recently was legend dancing A Tiverton

31

Photography courtesy of Jo Wilson-Hunt regionalroundup Wales & Ireland

Introducing Sophie Herrmann – new NODA Councillor for Wales and Ireland Wales & Ireland Committee Sophie founded (for a December production). Ascendance Theatre In September Sophie will also Acting Councillor Arts Ltd. in 2011 and has be auditioning children aged Derek Grattidge 02920 705684 thoroughly enjoyed the varied 13+ for a National Theatre [email protected] roles and responsibilities her Connections project. Regional Secretary position of Company and Jackie Titley 01686 650955 Artistic Director has brought. As a performer Sophie most [email protected] Ascendance Theatre Arts is recently performed as Lucy in Regional Treasurer & a children’s musical theatre ‘Avenue Q’ (2014) and Val in Membership Secretary school, production company ‘Chorus Line’ at the New Theatre Ian Hogg 01686 650955 and agency based in the Royal (2013). Previous experience [email protected] Welsh College of Music and includes Sarah Brown in ‘Guys Magazine Editor Dee McIlroy 01873 855311 Drama in . Children and Dolls’ in the Everyman [email protected] attend weekly lessons which lead Summer Festival (2013) and Silly Youth Advisor to end of term performances, Girl 1 in ‘Beauty and the Beast’ Zoe Richards 07816 149856 LAMDA examinations (acting/ at the New Theatre (2013). [email protected] musical theatre) and Arts Awards, capturing Sophie was delighted to support Ruthie Henshall Web Manager Sophie’s passion for working creatively with in ‘A Night of Movies and Musicals’ at St. David’s Guy Wooles 02920 710818 children and within the arts. Passionate about Hall and the Wales Millenium Stadium (2013). [email protected] teaching, Sophie has completed her MA in Other experience includes dancing in the Rugby Awards Secretary Drama, Estil voice training Level 1 and 2 and League Opening Ceremony in the Millenium Lyn Emmerson is recognised by the National Council for Stadium (2013), The Paralympic Opening 01492 870205 [email protected] Dance Education and Training. Ceremony (2012), Lisa in ‘The Wonderful World of Dissocia’ (YMCA Cardiff, 2011) and the Wales & Ireland Sophie is also a director and choreographer. Of Frantic Assembly/ Hijinx Unity performance at the Districts & note are her productions of ‘Alice in Wonderland Wales Millenium Centre (2013). Representatives Jr’ (RWCMD, 2014), ‘Oliver!’ (RWCMD, 2013), ‘Same’ (National Theatre Connections; Sophie is currently directing Stravinsky’s ‘A DISTRICT 1 Lyn Emmerson 01492 870205 Salisbury Playhouse, 2014) and ‘Joseph and Soldier’s Tale’ for the RWCMD REPco week [email protected] the Amazing Technicolour Dream Coat’ in the (RWCMD, 2015) and rehearsing for ‘Sweet DISTRICT 1A YMCA, Cardiff (2013). Sophie’s next full scale Charity’ (Everyman Summer Festival, 2015). Jackie Titley 01686 650955 production at the RWCMD will be ‘The Wedding Sophie takes up her new role as Councillor at [email protected] Singer’ with auditions in Cardiff in September the AGM in Leeds. DISTRICT 2 Sheelagh Hobart 02891 852760 [email protected]

DISTRICT 3 Dee McIlroy 01873 855311 [email protected] Wales & Ireland Regional Award Winners 2014 DISTRICT 4 Ralph Thomas 07787 005810 Best Drama Best Youth Best Best Best [email protected] Production Production Supporting Individual Production DISTRICT 5 Winner Briton Winner Neath Performance Performance Winner Luke Spencer 01554 229904 [email protected] Ferry Little A.O.S. Youth Winner Mark Winner Una Theatre Mask DISTRICT 6 Theatre – Funny Theatre – Jones – Llanelli Kulkin – Portrush Productions, Brian Slate 01267 242965 Money Phantom of the Musical Players Musical Society Rhondda – Jesus [email protected] Opera Malcolm in The Mother Superior Christ Superstar DISTRICT 7 Full Monty – Sister Act Sharon Davies 01633 764939 [email protected]

32 Achievement Awards

Wales & Ireland Achievement Award Winners 2014 District 1 District 2 District 3 District 6 District 7 For Outstanding For Outstanding For Outstanding For Outstanding For Outstanding Service To Amateur Service To Amateur Service To Amateur Service To Amateur Service To Amateur Theatre Theatre Theatre Theatre Theatre Ian Wilson – Llandudno Phyllis Michael – Patricia Evans – Peter Sharp – The Gerald Carter – Youth Musical Theatre Portrush Musical Society Blackwood Musical Academy Christchurch Music Society Society District 1A District 3 District 6 For Outstanding Service For Outstanding Service District 4 For Outstanding To Amateur Theatre To Amateur Theatre For Outstanding Service To Amateur Theresa Jones – Deborah Fleming Service To Amateur Theatre Wardens Theatre – Toppers Dance & Theatre Diane Williams – The Company Ltd Drama Brian Gardner Academy

Wales & Ireland District Winners 2014 Best Production District 1 Best Individual District 1A Best Individual District 3 Best Individual District 5 Colwyn Abbey Players Lyons Engineering Lyons Engineering Lyons Engineering Award Acorn Antiques Award Award James Price Phil Davies – Mike Clarke Newtown Miles Harding – Jesus White Christmas Best Drama Award Musical Theatre Company Vig Theatre Company – Jesus District 1 Scrooge – Christ Superstar Best Production District 6 Civic Hall Amateur Players Oliver – Carmarten Amateur (CHAPS) Best Production District 2 Best Youth Production Operatic Society The Last Bread Pudding Portrush Musical Society – District 4 Sister Act St Peter’s Players Best Technical District 6 Best Technical District 1 Aladdin – Cardiff Gang Show The Addams Family – Present Stage Theatre Best Drama District 2 Llanellimusical Players Company Searching For Dr Branovic – Best Production District 4 Present Laughter Helen’s Bay Players Concept Theatre Best Drama District 6 A Little Night Music The Vicar Of Dibley – Just Best Youth Production Best Technical District 2 Good Friends District 1 Fusion Theatre – Phantom Of Best Technical District 4 Conwy & District The Opera Rhiwbina A Theatre Society – Best Youth Production Kaleidoscope Theatre Co The 39 Steps District 6 Jack And The Beanstalk Best Youth Production – Carmarthen Youth Opera District 2 Best Individual District 4 Best Individual District 1 Fusion Theatre – Phantom Of Ellie Hoare Desiree Armfeldt – Best Individual District 6 Lyons Engineering The Opera A Little Night Music Concept Lyons Engineering Award Award Geraint Thomas – Uncle Sue Buckley – Mrs Overall Best Individual District 2 Best Drama District 4 Fester, The Addams Family – Colwyn Abbey Players Acorn Lyon’s Engineering Rhiwbina A Theatre Society – Llanelli Musical Players Antiques Award The 39 Steps Emma Nugent – Millie Best Production District 7 Best Production District 1A Thoroughly Modern Millie – Best Production District 5 New Venture Players Parade Newtown Musical Theatre Newcastle Glees Abbey Players – Singin’ In The Company Rain Best Technical District 7 A Christmas Carol Best Production District 3 Young Venture Players – Brynmawr Operatic Society- Best Drama District 5 Best Drama District 1A Phoenix Theatre.com– One Wardens Theatre Company O’Clock From The House Best Youth Production Ltd – Noises Off Best Technical District 3 District 7 Abergavenny Pantomime Best Technical District 5 Abertillery Youth Drama Musical Best Technical District 1A Company Melyncrythan A.O.S. – Society – Jekyll And Hyde Wardens Theatre Company Rumpelstilzskin Sweeney Todd Ltd – Dick Whittington & The Best Individual District 7 Pirates Of The Caribbean Best Youth Production Best Youth Production Lyons Engineering Award District 3 District 5 Andre Paul Spring – New AAODS Juniors – Neath A.O.S. Youth – Venture Players Parade Phantom Of The Opera WAWWA – Rent

NODA Today – July 2015 33 regionalroundup West Midlands Councillor’s Comments

The Ninth West Midlands Regional Conference and AGM was held in the Town Hall West Midlands Sutton Coldfield on Sunday 19th Committee April 2015.

Councillor Michael Hastilow The event commenced with a workshop on 07968 355101 “Copyright” presented by David Waters, of [email protected] Stagescripts, compared followed by the AGM. Regional Secretary and After a light supper the Regional Awards, Regional Treasurer compared by Ian Cox, were presented by Wendy Winterburn National President John Barnes. Awards 01432 273907 [email protected] being made for Best Musical, Best Drama, Best Pantomime and Best Youth production in Membership Secretary Jean Beard each of the Districts in addition to awards for had just presented, recording his visit. 01902 882362 Best Programmes and Poster. During the evening [email protected] Judith was presented with a bouquet of Flowers Michael Hastilow Web Manager and John with a salver, similar to the awards he Councillor, NODA West Midlands Vacant, please contact Regional Councillor Awards Secretary Wyn Mason MUSCOM with Legally Blonde 01782 616486 [email protected] Regional Editor Janine Graeme [email protected] Youth Advisor Steve Groves 07971 625865 [email protected]

West Midlands Districts & Representatives

DISTRICT 1 Louise Hickey MBE 01531 635133 [email protected] DISTRICT 2 Kay Ikin 01948 880200 First For The Region [email protected] DISTRICT 3 A chance to celebrate a first, not just any first but a double,Legally Blonde had its British Rachel Millar Amateur Premiere in our Region. The pressure of which was on but didn’t show as Simon Stone 01785 602830 reviewer for the Express and Star said of MUSCOM’s Legally Blonde “amateur standards are fast [email protected] approaching those of professional performance” DISTRICT 4 Annette Nuttall 01676 532225 Alf Rai (District 7 Rep) proudly said “MUSCOM [email protected] DISTRICT 7 DISTRICT 10 were given the honour of performing the British DISTRICT 5 Alf Rai Trevor Guest Amateur Premiere of Legally Blonde” and boy Judi Walton 07739 920233 01299 402690 did they make a good job of it!” 07986 938903 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] DISTRICT 8 DISTRICT 11 Well done! To all who contributed. DISTRICT 6 Dennis Price Brian Hirst Joyce Eyre 01384 571737 01543 677144 0121 744 3335 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] DISTRICT 9 DISTRICT 12 Paul Douglass Ian G. Cox 07876 190519 01527 543808 34 [email protected] [email protected] Worcester WODS with

Memories From Around The Region

At the 9th Regional Conference, Members who recently received their 50 Worcester WODS, in its 125th year we asked members to share their and 55 year pins have their memories too, performed a sell out West Side Story first performance memories. Our a different era possibly a childhood spent clocking in at their 175th production, that’s members noted many tales of amusing themselves “quietly”, while their a lot of productions, hardly nothing to school performances, child parts parents applied their passions. I’m sure the years clocked up by Birmingham and memories that take us back many of us in our 40’s and older probably BMOS at 134 years or Evesham a good 60 years. Yet the longevity share experiences the next generation EODS with 136 years making these the of many societies out strips our will never know due to stricter health oldest societies in our Region, this legacy members by generations, with the and safety rules, ours are awash with the is echoed by many societies across the age of the internet it is easy to smell of leichner, wooden ladders and country. It is about time we took stock and research our histories. the like, thick with aged hemp dust, mixed remembered what, where and why “we with theatre grime and air thick with stale cross our fingers and hold our hearts”. We thought we’d share a few gathered smoke and beer. memories with you. For those societies It is near impossible explain the why to in search of men, perhaps we should Most of us, as our feedback proves, someone who’s never stood on a stage try some of these examples? Peter of remember our childhood stage debuts, and felt the warmth of an audiences Worcester (WODS) was persuaded to Sian Brownhills Musical Society when applause, but once they have been get involved by a school friend with the aged 5 was in Get Your Gun touched.. We have members for life. prospect of meeting girls who were taking and still remembers her line “General part in the Boys School production of Gran” Margaret of Bedworth Theatre Janine Graeme HMS Pinafore! Then there’s, Stephen of when aged 12 in Hotel Paradise her Regional Editor, West Midlands Talisman Theatre Company who was first production, one of her costumes was recruited mid cricket match aged 13! a swimsuit.

NODA Today – July 2015 35 Bristol Old Vic Theatre School

Professional Stage Management courses 3 year (BA Hons) APPLY NOW oldvic.ac.uk/join-us 2 year (FdA) for more details

WORLD CLASS TRAINING www.oldvic.ac.uk MADE IN BRISTOL

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