Chicago (1996)

A Little Night Music (1997)

Into the Woods (2000)

Little Shop of Horrors (2002)

Company (2003)

Society Year - November 2002

Here we are again, back at The Little Theatre after a busy 12 months since we were last here with "The Boyfriend", a wonderful production, loved by our audiences. Only 82 seats remained unsold for the entire run and the outcome was very satisfying for our Treasurer. Director Ruth Bettesworth, MD Jonathan Watts and Choreographer Victoria Lindley once again lived up to their formidable reputations with this charming period piece.

South Pacific

After a short break, it was back to business in late January when we started rehearsals for our major 2002 production "South Pacific" staged at the Princess Theatre in late June. The show was chosen because it was felt the society needed to choose a show with proven box office potential, which had not been presented too often in this area. The response from our patrons was far greater than even the committee dared hope for. Almost 5000 people came to see the show and the society set a record for the largest box office take of any amateur show at the Princess Theatre. The society now holds Ist, 2nd and 3rd positions!!! A great cast responded to the lively direction of Richard Clark, supported by Jonathan Watts as MD and Amanda Read as choreographer and a fast moving show was the result. Needless to say, for the second show in a row, our Treasurer went home each night with a wide smile on her face.

Theatrical ventures can be very risky financially and, in recent years, the society reserves had shrunk to an alarming level due to hugely increased costs and the committees wish to present some newer and less performed shows, which were not necessarily box office material. The two successful shows in the last 12 months have helped to restore finances, but the Fighting Fund also plays a big part. The annual sponsored walk took place on a very rainy Sunday morning in May, but the hardy walkers still managed to raise over £700. The annual Babbacombe Downs Fete was held in July on a lovely, sunny Sunday and, once again, there was a very successful result. Members enjoyed themselves enormously and the event was as much a social event for them as a fund raising exercise. Elaine Gard and Cheryl Merrikin were the brains behind the event. Various social events have also taken place as the society is a very happy one and likes to party at any opportunity. Someone said recently that Toads Operatic members would gather for the opening of a Fridge Door!!!!

TOADS nude calendar

The society gained much publicity with its Nude Calendar which raised funds and received extensive paper and TV coverage, ensuring that some members had, for a while at least, the best known bottoms in Torbay!! Much hilarity was had at the photo sessions .... well.... when you've seen one naughty bit" you've seen them all!!!!

The 2002 AGM was attended by 50 members and associates indicating a high level of commitment from the members. They learned that Sally Watson remains substantially handicapped by the illness that struck her in mid 2001 and our thoughts are with her family. Olive Bennet, who suffered from the same illness, has happily made a total recovery. Life member Peter Randall, well known Dartmouth Town Crier and past chairman of the society was recently presented with his 50 year NODA medal. Peter has been suffering from cancer but is happily responding well to treatment and we are hopeful that he can overcome his illness and will be spied front of house during this production. Ex leading lady, Julie Scarbrough, recently gave birth to twins, Alexander and Grace and we wish her family well.

Rae Gilderthorp and Viv Nietrzebka receive the Golden Toad from Jean Macer (centre)

Rae Gilderthorp and Viv Nietrzebka won the Golden Toad Award in recognition of their fantastic work on props and scenic additions. Their respective husbands also shared the workload but the committee felt chivalrous and gave the award to the ladies!!! Colin and Rae have since been busy making the 4 Audrey II puppets for this production and Viv has made some of the costumes. There is no rest for the wicked!!

The NODA South West weekend was not held this year as the NODA National Conference was held here in Torquay at the Palace Hotel as the SW Councillor, Mary Hobbs, was made National President. 20 members attended the gala reception and dinner and our own Peter Randall was Toast Master.

And so to "Little Shop of Horrors". Not an obvious box office show and advance bookings could have been better but a talented cast have been working hard to present our usual high standard show.