.

Musical Theatre NZ Conference March 9-11, Hamilton - a virgin's perspective
PLOC was represented at conference by Mary Gray, Kevin & Coralie Maddern. This was the first time attending for the three of us, so we were unsure of what to expect. We soon found a large group in this same boat, but we were all warmly welcomed and affectionately known as “virgins”. Yeah right! The conference kicked off with a country night at Riverlea Theatre, where all got into the spirit with cowboy hats, boots, shirts etc. Great entertainment was provided, in a marvellous venue, where you caught up with old friends and started new friendships. Saturday was to start at 8.30am (ouch!) with AGM and roll call of societies and groups around the country. Lots of info about new musicals, plays and pantomimes available. Long serving members of clubs around NZ were recognised and presented with Merit Awards. The seminars that we attended were practical, informative and loads of fun. Kevin attended a Production Managers course while Mary and Coralie found the Spoken Voice course valuable. We hope to be able to use the tools learned back home in our club. “Ascot” was the theme for Saturday night with a formal ball. The venue was beautifully decorated in black ‘n white with fabulous costumes worn by many. The band was fantastic, keeping us dancing till late. At Sunday breakfast we were all voiceless and tired, but agreed it had been so worthwhile attending such a well organised event. Making contacts and networking with others regarding resources, talents, ideas and support is made so easy when at conference. Many clubs are facing similar issues to us, which MTNZ are acknowledging and working hard to address. While expecting the serious subjects at conference, we were impressed with the effort that went into making it fun too! So would we go to another MTNZ conference? PLOC will be at Timaru ‘08!!

So we hope this will encourage others who haven't been quite sure about coming to conference, to come along to Timaru.

Competition Results – Programmes

Multi A (ACT Trophy) First:  Showbiz Christchurch - Beauty and the Beast Second: Invercargill Musical Theatre - Rocky Horror

Multi B (New Plymouth Operatic Trophy) First: Sound of Music - Gore Operatic   Second: Cabaret - Auckland Music Theatre Third: Fame - North Shore Music Theatre

Multi C - Tony Flannagan Memorial Award First: Platinum Vinyl - A salute to the 70s - Abbey Musical Theatre   Second: Annie Jnr - Drama League South Canterbury Junior Section

Single Sheet - Frank Terry Memorial Award First: Shenanigans Wake - Variety Theatre Ashburton Second: Cabaret - Variety Theatre Ashburton Third:  Back to the 80s - Rotorua Musical Theatre

 

Origin Theatrical Poster Competition Winner:  Charlotte's Web - Nelson Musical Theatre Second:  Cabaret - Variety Theatre Ashburton

 

John Herber/JC Williamson Showbill Competition Winner:  Rotorua Musical Theatre - Back to the 80s

   

Website Competition First:  Wellington Musical Theatre High School Musical http://www.hsmnz.com/ Designers:  Adam Blackwell and Colin Barkus