Big slice of theatre for veteran

Gregory Shepherd and Hazel Burton reminisce at the Rotorua Musical Theatre's 70th jubilee. Photo / Ben Fraser

Hazel Burton never imagined buying a fundraising pizza would lead to more than two decades involvement with the Rotorua Musical Theatre - but 24 years on she's still going strong.

And as part of the celebrations this weekend at the theatre's 70th jubilee, Mrs Burton was recognised for her efforts when she was given a life membership.

"It really was a big surprise. When you become involved with the theatre you become involved with a big family."

She said the recognition was that much more special "because it is that family that gives you the honour".

Mrs Burton said she only became involved with the theatre after purchasing a pizza they were selling to raise money - and since then she's become one of the chief pizza sellers.

"Everyone has their funny story of how they've got involved. A lot are just simple silly things like that."

Proof that you don't have to be centre stage to be involved, Mrs Burton has created a name for herself painting sets and helping in a stage management capacity.

"Being on stage is not me. It takes as many back stage as it does on stage. There's the saying a whole show goes on behind the set that no one ever sees."

Standout shows over the years include Les Miserables.

"In the end I spent more time on the set than anyone else in the show."

Gregory Shepherd was one of those who travelled for the event. Now living and working in theatre in Auckland, Mr Shepherd said "it all began in Rotorua".

"I'm so proud of the place. It was an amazing weekend and so special."

Mr Shepherd said the Rotorua society was the best he'd been involved in - especially the days with the late Robert Young as the director and choreographer. "He left his mark."

Rotorua Musical Theatre's Barry Jenkins said it was a "fabulous" weekend.