Our first play of the year,

a New Zealand premier production of a comedy by

Jao Bethencourt

‘The Day They Kidnapped The Pope’

was skillfully directed by Gwyneth Glover, her second production for the society. Last year, Gwyneth presented the ever popular ‘Charlie’s Aunt’ which won us a Best Comedy Award at the annual ACTT nominations. While other directors had given this funny and timely play a miss, after reading it, Gwyneth saw the possibilities immediately and offered to direct it for us. It was a bold move. The play was written for a large amount of technical effects calling for complex sound as well as television. By using real TV presenters on stage, this production problem was solved. Combined with an amazing set and turning the theatre around, adding authentic looking costumes and with a dedicated and talented cast, the risks were well worth taking. This complex and thought provoking play broke new ground for us. Laughter was heard at every performance while audible sighs of the recognition of the reality of the world’s problems at the end of the play were reason enough for us to be well pleased this play was chosen.

With casting finally settled only a few weeks before opening night, it all hands to set up the theatre ready for the first performance. A huge thank you to Chris Webb for his design and set construction. Costumes created by Marion Hines were outstanding and props, provided by Mary Boyd and the cast, gave authenticity to the production. So many people give of their time to our productions and without friends and families to lend a hand, the show would never go on. A huge vote of thank to everyone who helped in whatever capacity.

Director Gwyneth Glover assembled a great cast of actors including Neil Shaddock, Lynn Webster, Dennis Petrone, Lillian Shaddock, Hilary Grant, Stan Goudge, Richard Glover, Steven Oates, Gail Hosken, Bruce Weston and Anthony Carroll as the Pope. Along with Glenda Matchett who also was one of the off stage voices, back stage crew included Ryan Stevens, Chris Webb, Peter Carr and Jaquie Rice. Neil Lobb stage managed the production while Kathy Lobb welcomed patrons and took care of the front of house.

For information regarding our next production in October - read on.