Theatre celebrates 70 years

Rotorua Musical Theatre's youngest and oldest members, Oliver Smyth, 13, and Vera Ibbetson. Photo / Ben Fraser

Binders brimming with photos, flyers and memorabilia will be on display this weekend in celebration of the Rotorua Musical Theatre's 70th jubilee.

Ursula Schraa and Barry Jenkins, theatre archivists, will be collating and displaying the memorabilia of more than 160 shows to celebrate the milestone.

"At the 50-year anniversary we had people from the very first show, A Country Girl, come along who wept as they walked around all the archives on display. It was then we thought, we can't lose this," Mrs Schraa said.

"There were times over the last 70 years when we thought the future of theatre was a bit bleak, particularly when film and television became popular in the 1970s, but it has proven to stand the test of time."

Mrs Schraa said they were always looking to bring more young performers into the society.

"Our society gives young people experience outside school production and it's a great way to make friends as we all act like one big family."

She said it was clear the Rotorua Musical Theatre still had a place in the community.

"There are many people like me in this society who see it as a place where they can do what they love."

Rotorua Musical Theatre president Natasha Benfell said they were grateful to be able to celebrate 70 years of operating.

"We are very fortunate to have so many dedicated volunteers who have a passion for community theatre. It is this dedication and persistence to strive to be the best that has allowed us to celebrate 70 years.

"We have a very promising future and will continue to work hard. The Rotorua Musical Theatre has worked with so many individuals and businesses over the years and we are appreciative of all of their support," she said.

70th Jubilee presentation opening times:
•Tonight: Meet and greet, 6pm to 8pm
•Tomorrow: Meet and greet, 11am to 3pm
•Sunday: Farewell get together, 10am to 1pm