50 years in Bendigo Theatre

Pat was encouraged to join the Bendigo Operatic Society by her late husband Kevin for the production of The Desert Song staged in October, 1957. His support continued through the ensuing years.
In the early days the family didn't own a car, so she walked from Specimen Hill Road, to the Temperance Hall,View Street for rehearsals twice a week.
Over the years her four daughters, Ann, Ruth, Julie and Jocelyn became involved in a number of shows with Pat playing roles, and dancers. Julie directed the company's first production of Godspell, and Ruth has also contributed in the design and construction of scenery and props.

In the early 1990's Pat's grand-children, April, Adam and Anthony also showed their interest in theatre and participated in various musicals with her.

Over the past 50 + years Pat has been involved with many aspects of Musical Comedy/now known as Musical Theatre. She has:-

 

• Appeared in 48 productions which included Operetta, Gilbert and Sullivan, Pantomine, and Reviews.

 

• Taken the baton as Musical Director.

 

• Performed Publicity Officer and Presidency role on the committee, and is a life member.

 

• Dedicated 1,000's of hours in wardrobe and sewing costumes.

She learnt much of this skill from the late Madge Welch. who taught her how to create costumes many of which she made herself for the roles she played. These included, South Pacific, The White Horse Inn, Rio Rita, The Merry Widow, The King and I , Bless The Bride, Oliver, just to name a few.

 

• And assisted as prompt and with Makeup.

 

From the late 60's till the present day Pat has been a Committee Member, and recalls the company's change of name in the 1980's to the Bendigo Theatre Company.

Her love for the Bendigo Theatre Company will remain with her always, and she offers her heartfelt thanks for the part it has played in her life. As this milestone with the company approaches, she pays tribute to all past and present Producers, Directors, Musical Directors, musicians players, Committee members, back stage crews, and media who have worked so hard. She would mostly like to thank all the patrons from Bendigo and surrounding districts, who without their loyal support the shows would not have gone on. It is through their ongoing attendance and contribution that the company has endured the changes over the years ensuring it's survival, now for over 50 years.