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Thirty years and still going strong
From the Bolton Evening News, first published Tuesday 1st Feb 2005.
THE Victoria Hall Amateur Dramatic Society will celebrate its 30th anniversary this year, and is planning a big reunion to mark the occasion.
"All members are welcome, no matter what part you played in the society," said VHADS secretary Linda Massey.
"Acting, scenery, painting, backstage, lighting, front of house, kitchen, wardrobe or musicians - everyone is welcome."
"We're celebrating the 30th birthday of the society in its present form," said Barry Massey. "Before that it produced lots of shows, but they were usually under the banner of the church dramatic society youth group."
The Society's first production was Jack and the Beanstalk, though readers may have seen a photograph in the "Old Pals" section of the Bolton Evening News of January 22. The photo was of the Society's second show, Cinderella, which featured a photo of a young cast member who later performed on a different stage altogether.
"It was Julian Darby, who went on to play for Bolton Wanderers," said Barry. "He was in a few, but some of the younger ones go on to different things."
The group have just finished their latest pantomime, Cinderella, and are planning their Summer production. Their 2004 panto, Aladdin, was nominated for a Best Pantomime award in the Bolton Evening News Amateur Theatre Awards.
"I write the pantos myself," said Barry.
"I have done for the last three or four years.
"It's cheaper than paying royalties for a start, but you also have fairly universal panto themes that you can develop. And doing it this way means that we can devise a show that fits well, because you know who you're writing for."
The Society have sent out letters to everyone they know about the reunion, which will be at Astley Bridge Cricket Club on February 19 at 8.00pm.
"It will just be nice to get as many people as possible," said Barry.
"It's all about having fun, and we've had plenty, with more to come, I'm sure."
For more information, contact Linda or Barry Massey on 01204 845493.
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