Do We Do Enough For Youth?
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noda.org.uk
Summer 2019 | £3.90 Be inspired by amateur theatre
Children In Performance -
The Definitive Guide
A Trip to the Archive
Taking It To The Next Level
All the News From Your Region
Do We Do
Enough For
Youth?
Please share this copy of NODA TODAY with fellow society members
CONTENTS WELCOME
Welcome to the Summer edition of NODA
On the cover TODAY, as you can see the new updates and
changes in format are slowly rolling out, we hope
Chicago High the grouping of articles makes for a more informed
School Edition reading experience and that the magazine will truly
Angles Theatre be “NODA Today”. If you have any comment or
Photo by
Curtis McMullan
8 suggestions, Rob, our National Editor would like to
hear from you, alternatively speak to your Regional
Representative or Regional Councillor.
Features Do We Do On the theme of knowing what is going on, the
Volunteer Conference allowed for some interesting discussions, over the coming
months Council and its Regions will be doing what we can to address the issues. An
area of concern was our Youth Work, and we have since sought to recruit someone
11 Enough For to integrate the fantastic work being done in our regions and better understand
what we can do to support this very important aspect of NODA. We are pleased
to announce that at the time of publication, we have appointed Mike Mullen as the
new Youth Coordinator. I am sure you will all be hearing from him soon to inform
Taking It To The Next Level
We spoke to Paul Elsam, author,
performer and course director on
taking youth performing to the next
level
Youth? you all of his amazing ideas going forward.
Summer is definitely here, marked by the highest temperatures for June recorded
and everyone involved with and attending this year’s Summer School at Yarnfield
starting their packing for what looks at being a tremendous week.
20
Children In Entertainment
All the News From Your Region
As trustees of a National Charity we have to spend time on governance matters,
our constitution has been given a thorough looking-at by councillors, the result of
their labours means some tweaks and a revision of Bye Laws to support them. At the
The definitive guide to Children In National AGM in September you will be asked to approve the changes, full details
Entertainment including Chaperones, will be included in the detailed papers for that conference.
Performance Licensing and
Safeguarding We do have a legal helpline which is there to support all societies on a range of
matters, we recent had a query about “reasonable adjustment” a simple oversight in
30
The Middle Leg of the Presidential
how someone discussed accessibility, led to a call to the team. If you have a query,
contact Dale, as we may already have had a similar query and can provide a route
forward.
Tour
Catch with NODA President Jacquie Continue to enjoy your involvement in Theatre, in whatever role excites you.
Stedman as she and her husband
David tour the UK. East North East North South East Michael Hastilow - Chairman of Trustees
32
A Trip to the Archives
2019 marks the 75th anniversary
of D-Day. We delve into NODA
GETTING IN TOUCH
history to learn of how the Association The National Operatic and Dramatic NODA Insurance
survived World War II Association nodainsurance.co.uk
15 The Metro Centre 01823 250 736
56
Long Service Award Winners
Peterborough
PE2 7UH NODA Safe
noda.org.uk/nodasafemembers
In this edition we celebrate the East Midlands North West South West West Midlands T +44 (0) 1733 374 790 0345 257 6632
recipients of awards for 25 to 45 E info@noda.org.uk
years of service to their societies. W www.noda.org.uk NODA Legal Advice Service
01733 374 790
62
First Timer Thoughts
© 2019 National Operatic and
Dramatic Association
Registered CIO 1171216
(NODA Membership Services)
info@noda.org.uk
What is it like being a first timer at Registered Company no. 241572 Social Media
the NODA Summer School. Kevin facebook.com/
Stemp tells us his experiences being Patrons NationalOperaticDramaticAssociation
a newbie The Lord Lloyd Webber Twitter - @NodaTweets
Connie Fisher Instagram @NodaPics
London Scotland Wales & Ireland NODA Youth
Your letters and comments Who’s Who at NODA
Council
H
socie as your
President NODA London Regional Councillor NODA South East Regional Councillor
our
Does y ty
Jacquie Stedman Andrew Rogers Kay Rowan
have a spe pulled of
jacquie.stedman@noda.org.uk andrew.rogers@noda.org.uk kay.rowan@noda.org.uk
society ctacu f Was your last
famous show l a r show something Chairman
Michael Hastilow
NODA North Regional Councillor
Gordon Richardson
NODA South West Regional Councillor
Graham Liverton
?
alumni ? out of the michael.hastilow@noda.org.uk gordon.richardson@noda.org.uk graham.liverton@noda.org.uk
ordinary? Immediate Past President NODA North East Regional Councillor NODA Wales & Ireland Regional Councillor
Nick Lawrence Leslie Smith Jordan Spencer
nick.lawrence@noda.org.uk leslie.smith@noda.org.uk jordan.spencer@noda.org.uk
NODA East Regional Councillor NODA North West Regional Councillor NODA West Midlands Regional Councillor
National Editor NODA North West Editor Tessa Davies Christine Hunter Hughes Ian G. Cox
Rob Williams Rob Gemmell tessa.davies@noda.org.uk christine.hunterhughes@noda.org.uk ian.cox@noda.org.uk
editor@noda.org.uk rob.gemmell@noda.org.uk
NODA East Midlands Regional Councillor NODA Scotland Regional Councillor NODA Life Member
NODA East Editor NODA Scotland Editor Nanette Lovell Stuart McCue-Dick John W. Barnes
Julia Rymer Alan C. Jones nanette.lovell@noda.org.uk stuart.dick@noda.org.uk john.barnes@noda.org.uk
julia.rymer@noda.org.uk alan.jones@noda.org.uk
NODA East Midlands Editor NODA South East Editor
Alex Wood Gregory Gower NODA Limited
alex.wood@noda.org.uk gregory.gower@noda.org.uk
If you have an Chairman Chairman of Trustees Directors
NODA London Editor NODA South West Editor Eric Smart Michael Hastilow Neil Maidman, Christine Hunter Hughes
interesting story to Position Vacant Matthew Heaton eric.smart@noda.org.uk michael.hastilow@noda.org.uk Ian G. Cox, Fred Piggford
editor@noda.org.uk matthew.heaton@noda.org.uk
tell, then get in touch
NODA North Editor NODA Wales & Ireland Editor
with your Regional Emma Scott Dee McIlroy
emma.scott@noda.org.uk dee.mcillroy@noda.org.uk Head Office Staff
Editor
NODA North East Editor NODA West Midlands Editor Chief Operating Officer Marketing and Publishing Executive Membership Services
Tony Harris Janine Graeme Dale Freeman Rob Williams Richard Hutchinson
tony.harris@noda.org.uk janine.graeme@noda.org.uk dale@noda.org.uk rob@noda.org.uk richard@noda.org.uk
Finance Manager Administrative Support and Summer School
Chris Cotton Beverly Clarke
chris@noda.org.uk beverly@noda.org.uk
NODA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The Annual General Meeting of The National Operatic and Dramatic Association, Charity No 1171216
will take place on Saturday 28th September 2019 at 2.30pm at Conference Centre Southport (The
Where do I go to find out...?
Floral Hall) PR9 0DZ.
Where do I find contact To find out more about We need legal advice -
The Meeting is called in accordance with Rule 11 of the Associations Constitution to receive the audited
annual statement of accounts, the trustees report, receive reports on the number of members, the details for my Regional NODA Pantomimes? what do we do?
proposed rates of subscription, elect nominated Trustees, Honorary and Life Members. Appoint the
appeals committee and elect the auditors for the ensuing year and receive any other business of which Representative?
due notice has been given.
Go to www.noda.org.uk/regions Go to www.noda.org.uk/pantomimes Email info@noda.org.uk clearly
To ensure the smooth running of the meeting, any resolutions to be considered at the meeting should be Click on your region and then the tab Here you can read extracts of all of the detailing your issue or request.
sent to the Chairman of Trustees Michael Hastilow at 15 The Metro Centre, Peterborough, PE2 7UH or saying Committee pantomimes available from NODA
by e-mail to michael.hastilow@noda.org.uk to arrive no later than 24th August 2019. or We will then contact our Legal Team
or who will get in touch with you directly.
NODA email addresses follow the
format of You can apply for your performance
firstname.lastname@noda.org.uk licence online
NODA Today - Summer 2019 5
Councillors
Chat
A quick note from your Regional
Councillor
Tessa Davies Nannette Lovell Andrew Rogers Gordon Richardson Leslie Smith
East Regional Councillor East Midlands Regional Councillor London Regional Councillor North Regional Councillor North East Regional Councillor
NODA East recently held their It was great to meet so many of This has been a year of change By the time this magazine is Once again it gives me great
annual AGM and Gala awards our NODA family at the AGM for the NODA London committee. published hopefully all nominees for pleasure to welcome you to NODA
presentation. I want to thank and Awards Day on 23rd June. A new Councillor, a re-joining our youth and performance awards North East where things have been
everyone who worked to make Congratulations to all those groups Treasurer and now both our Social will have accepted their nominations moving pretty quickly since I last
the day a success and to all that who received nominations for Media guru and Editor have stood and sent their paperwork and spoke to you all.
attended. We are now planning the awards. We now have a new Rep down. We are reviewing the roles remittance accordingly.
2020 event and, with the number for District 4 - Andrew Key and a and responsibilities of the current In April we had our Gala Weekend
of guests growing every year, we new Awards Secretary, Caroline committee members and seeing Every year the choosing of my in Bridlington which once again
are on the lookout for another great Jervis, who will be looking after your where we need to strengthen the winners becomes harder such is the was a huge success with around
venue within the region. requests for Long Service Awards. team. Be assured we will continue standard. Same is true of our reps – 700 members of the NODA North
Alison Roberts has also taken on to work hard to ensure London to be nominated is an honour itself. East family in attendance together
In the meantime, I am looking the role of Membership Secretary. Societies get the service they with our National President Jacquie
forward to visiting many of the Caroline has taken over from require. See you hopefully at Gosforth Stedman and her husband David.
shows around the region, I am Peter Beddall and Alison from Phil Park Hotel September 14th for I hope they had a much fun as the
sure they will continue to maintain Williams as both of these gentlemen All the best for your forthcoming what proves to be another special rest of us.
the high standards that we have have decided to retire. productions – I hope to see you evening.
come to expect from the societies in I hope you all have a brilliant soon.
NODA East. summer!
Christine Hunter Hughes Stuart McCue-Dick Kay Rowan Graham Liverton Jordan Spencer Ian G. Cox
North West Regional Councillor Scotland Regional Councillor South East Regional Councillor South West Regional Councillor Wales & Ireland Regional Councillor West Midlands Regional Councillor
My final ‘Chat’ – very much the The NODA Scotland conference The Celebration Day of 2018 I hope you agree that the South By the time you receive this edition We were delighted to welcome our
end of an era, as you all know, in will once again return to the was held at the Electric Theatre in West awards evening this year was our Regional Awards and Annual National President Jacquie Stedman
September I step down from my iconic Peebles Hydro (25-27 Guildford. All together during the a most enjoyable evening, and the General Meeting in Hereford and husband David to mingle and
current post as North West Regional October 2019) for a weekend day nearly 300 people attended. venue did us proud. would have taken place nearly two meet with members and delegates
Councillor and hand that particular of workshops, networking and Eight societies entertained us with a months ago and the preparation will at our 2019 Regional Conference
baton over to Andy McNicholas. socialising. Workshops will cover range of performances from opera The next awards evening will be be underway for 2020. and Awards Day in April.
singing, movement, drama, licensing to a modern musical to a serious on the 9th May 2020. I am aware
However, I look forward to meeting of children in theatre and stage play. for some societies this may be I will be vacating the role of The well attended event included
many, many more members of ‘the management. There will also be a inconvenient, but with it currently Councillor in 2020 and therefore exhibitor partners, a make-up
NODA Family’ as I travel around range of theatrical suppliers and I have already visited almost 30 being in March, it is too near to if there is anyone that would be workshop, AGM and spectacular
the country as your National rights holders in attendance. The societies since the beginning of the Christmas to do everything with interested in possibly taking on this entertainment. There were
President. It has been an honour weekend will also include the AGM year and many more to come. Your ease and with weather being rewarding role please do get in presentations of 174 awards in 5
and a pleasure to serve as the and the result of the Programme and productions continue to amaze with difficult (the snow) last year! touch with me via email categories, along with those for the
NW Councillor – the region where Poster Competition. their professionalism and vitality. jordan.spencer@noda.org.uk programme and poster competition.
NODA was originally born! The Southwest AGM will be on Thank you for the support with 360
Bookings are now open, and full I look forward to meeting more of September 1st 2019, at the Walnut Please keep inviting me to your members sharing achievements of
details are on the NODA Scotland you and watching your exciting Tree, North Petherton at 11am. All shows and where possible Luke and 2018. I hope to see you all again
pages at www.noda.org.uk productions. welcome! I would be delighted to attend. soon.
6 NODA Today - Summer 2019 7
Do We Do Enough For Youth?
With the re-launch of the NODA Youth Everybody’s Talking About Jamie and with amazing music and is fun to stage,
Project approaching, we are pleased more, this has created a new buzz for but as it hasn’t been on the West End in
to announce the appointment of our musical theatre - particularly as these years and is not available on Spotify,
new Youth Coordinator, Mike Mullen. shows incorporate real-life recent events Apple Music etc, hence no one knows
He will lead the relaunch and be there and issues pertinent to youth growing it and the choice doesn’t interest youth.
to support the amazing work our Youth up in today’s world. But how does this If I suggested High School Musical my
Advisors do around the country with our transfer down to amateur companies; hand would be bitten off by people
amazing members. the release of the rights for these types of wanting to sign up. Don’t get me wrong
shows will be years away, if ever? there are still some amazing educational
The work we do with Youth groups has arts programmes in schools but how
been a hot topic for some time and the So, now I have had a little moan about can we as an industry support, plug the
progress already made in such a short the difficulties finding youth shows, how gaps or replace this education if it truly
time is exciting. I’ve taken a step back to do we change it? How do we push the becomes lost in schools?
think about what we as NODA and the industry to give more opportunities to
industry in general offer youths - the next youth - in shows they’re so interested in? Youth groups offer an amazing
generation At the end of the day, as we all know, experience to children by introducing
they are the future of the industry whether them into theatre but again there are
As a youth director, before we have amateur or professional. limitations. Every group does things
even finished the current show, I am differently, but I would expect most
being quizzed by the cast on what is With the huge amount of cuts to Arts groups would say they are met with
coming up next; what are the options for in schools, children are less exposed barriers from the professional world
the next musical? Quite often I have to to theatre and in particular, plays so
reply ‘I don’t know’. when it comes to choosing a show, the
kids always go for a musical as that is
I find it harder and harder each year to what is most accessible to them and
find shows: the most well-known ones as well. For
• that suit the age range, years I have tried to stage Children of
• the capability of the company, Eden by Stephen Schwartz. It’s a show
• that will actually sell and make our
society money,
• that won’t break the bank to stage,
• that will fit in a small theatre,
• can be done with a composite set.
So not many limitations! After weighing
up all of those factors, we then have to
work out if the show choice will actually
attract a youth cast.
Both the West End and Broadway
over the last few years have seen an
explosion of new musicals including
Come From Away, Dear Evan Hansen,
Chicago High School Edition - Angles Theatre, Wisbech
Photo by Curtis McMullan
Taking It To The Next Level
whether in access to performance
rights, venue limitations. Again how can
we as an industry support these groups
to enable them to offer the best possible
education to their members?
Over recent years, we have seen a big Harry in Peter Terson’s wonderful Zigger
change in Rightsholders focus, with a lot Zagger remains a high point. I was
more School Editions or Junior versions selling petrol in the daytime, booze at
of major shows being released (much night (in a nightclub), and acting and
to the adult companies envy!). The rehearsing in every spare moment I
group I direct for have performed many could find.
of these versions now with great success
and this shows that Rightsholders are Months later, I applied to my local
keen to encourage youth to ‘get the education authority for a discretionary
bug’ early with the big hits. Shows grant, and they turned me down flat.
like Chicago and Les Misérables are If this were a movie script, that would
suddenly within the scope of a young definitely be the protagonist’s lowest
performer and although in some parts low point! I’d stumbled late into acting
heavily simplified (but certainly not all as a shy care leaver, found my mission
parts) it does not affect the storyline in life, and then been thwarted horribly
or the impact these shows have. This at a critical moment.
is certainly a step in the right direction
in terms of show choices but there still subsidised or taster sessions. The likes of Well, so far I have just posed more A bit of panicked research taught me
seems to be a gap for the older youth the National Youth Theatre hold a three questions than giving any answers. But that I could get a mandatory grant at
sections who are more than capable of week Summer School dedicated to I think that is the point, as a Director one of just two schools – Rose Bruford
doing the full show - a junior version just pure Technical Theatre. where do I go for answers, where do College, and Manchester Polytechnic
wouldn’t interest or push them. I go for support. But actually, what – and within weeks I’d landed a place
So how do we support those that want support do I want, do I want someone at the Poly.
It isn’t just onstage where more needs to take their amateur performing to the to talk to, somewhere I can read it
to be done to encourage youths within next level, what route is best - stage all, a workshop to teach me, a forum Drama school was something else.
the theatre. Sound, lighting, costumes, school, university, weekend classes/ to discuss our issues with other youth Everyone in my class was the ‘best’
set building, props, the list goes on. I summer schools? When I was 18, I directors? All I know is that I want to actor from their own town or city, and
got involved in theatre as an eager made the decision to not go off to do as much as I can and the best I can everyone seemed super-confident.
15 year wanting to perform, but very university but to learn within a working for youth theatre, I want to stand on the I mostly kept my head down, and I
quickly became interested in all things theatre, that was the right choice for rooftops beating the drum as the talent studied hard.
offstage, in the end concentrating on me but what about others. Whilst we involved deserve all of the praise and My Name is Paul Elsam. You might to join in as I stumbled around being
sound and lighting. I was lucky to be are not careers advisors, children look support we can offer. know me as the author of ‘Acting taunted by an invisible Faustus. I was Everyone knows how tough it is to
involved at a theatre that was equipt up to us for guidance. So where do I Characters’. Here’s my story about hooked! I joined the newly-formed earn a living as a professional actor. I
to and encouraged young people to find the guidance and support to help For a number of years, NODA has how a lad from Merseyside came to Wirral Youth Theatre (run by the wise think they must’ve put something in the
get involved in anything and everything those children? In the following article, offered a programme of support to work with the Stephen Joseph Theatre and funny Mary Austin) and promptly Didsbury water because I left the Poly
theatre. But not all groups are equipt I spoke to Paul Elsam from the University members for anything relating to Youth. teaching the actors of tomorrow. fell in love with warm-ups, impro, feeling like the industry was lucky to
to do this, where do they go for that of Hull, who with a background in With the appointment of our new Youth devising, and pros-arch acting. have me! Anyway, that, sadly, was the
support? After doing a small amount amateur theatre gives us an insight into Coordinator, Mike Mullen we will be I grew up in Wallasey, over the water last time I ever acted as an amateur
of research, I was surprised to see so the choices available and possibly kick-starting the relaunch of NODA from Liverpool. I loved sport, and was The WYT lent me out to a local amateur (although ‘amateur’ seemed to be a
many holiday and evening classes looking at alternative routes into the Youth and we want your involvement. on the school team for football and society in Birkenhead, to play Nick banned word at drama school back
available to youths in Technical Theatre, industry. rugby - but I was rather shy in group in the cheeky comedy Two and Two then, just as ‘Ayckbourn’ appeared to
some of which were free, heavily What do you want to get from your social situations. Make Sex. Things were suddenly be a banned playwright).
membership? grown-up but still playful, and I was
• Do you want us to advocate on I was always a bit of a clown in private mixing with people from across the
your behalf to Rightsholders? with my brothers, but there was no outlet social spectrum – all of whom made me
• Hold District/Regional/National for that – for example, no drama at all feel welcome, despite my then yeti-like
workshops? on the school curriculum. Now and appearance! By now I’d chosen drama
• A Youth Summer School? then they would hold auditions for a big over rugby (not an easy conversation),
• Create a general forum so glitzy musical – West Side Story and and had had a mad idea: what if I
members can chat together to the like - but that all seemed quite scary. could get paid for doing what I loved?
overcome issues that others may
share? I did English Lit at ‘A’ Level, which also I applied to drama schools. RADA
We have lists and lists of things that we meant studying old plays that were seemed too posh for the likes of me, but
can offer but we want to offer what our hard to decipher. As it happened our I managed to successfully fail auditions
membership needs, not what we think it English teacher, Mr Coates, was a real at Central (in front of a scary Billy-Elliot-
needs. theatre lover, and because we were style panel) and Bristol Old Vic (who
studying Marlowe’s Doctor Faustus, he made me sing, unprepared, a wobbly
decided we would stage it too. So, we Three Blind Mice – I still shudder at
So now is your chance. did the full play, ‘in the round’, in a large the memory). A school in Birmingham
classroom, for an invited audience. So (BSSTDA) took pity and offered me a
Visit noda.org.uk/youth to help us aged seventeen, and entirely new to place for the following year. I promptly
shape NODA for the future. acting, I found myself onstage playing moved to a bedsit a stone’s throw from
the Pope! I remember still the thrill of my youth theatre and carried on with
audience laughter, and not being able the impro, and the productions - playing
10 NODA Today - Summer 2019 11
And then? A decade plus of pockets
of unemployment, interspersed with
some amazing acting adventures that
took me all over the UK and abroad,
Study BA (Hons)
onto TV, and into the West End for an
Olivier-nominated new musical (singing
‘Three Blind Mice’ not required). Acting at a world-
Then? My second big love – teaching,
which led me into research, which
led to my two books for Bloomsbury,
‘Acting Characters’, plus a study of
famous theatre – starts September
theatre genius Stephen Joseph. The new BA (Hons) Acting degree, starting September 2019, is a partnership
between CU Scarborough, the UK’s leading modern university and Coventry University*
Fast forward to 2019, and we’re about Scarborough’s world-famous Stephen Joseph Theatre. Ranked No.13
to launch a BA (Hons) Acting course UK University
here at CU Scarborough, run in close vlogging, to producing, to performing This partnership allows students to gain first-hand acting experience directly Guardian University
partnership with the Stephen Joseph for video games. The first module from the theatre professionals, whilst simultaneously achieving a professional Guide 2019
Theatre. My new job requires me to requires no speech at all! I also get to qualification.
*CU Scarborough is part of the Coventry University Group
plan the curriculum, so now I get to fill our shelves with plays, with cutting-
plot learning adventures for a new edge advice from our professional The students will be immersed in the workings of a professional theatre from the
wave of actors, whatever their current partners at the Stephen Joseph Theatre. beginning, which provides them with an invaluable insight into the profession; a
age. It’s quite radical. The audition is I’ll be picking some personal favourites feature which most traditional courses cannot provide.
friendly and personal. And there’s no too, including by a few people who Coventry University*
Shakespeare – which I love, but he have really shown how to reinvent The diversity of the curriculum allows students to train in both traditional and UK’s highest ranking
does tend to dominate drama school the theatre experience. Top of my list? non-traditional acting techniques. This includes acting for stage, TV and radio New University
training. Instead, we’ll teach everything Maybe you guessed – a certain Alan alongside the rather non-traditional training in presenting, corporate role-play, Guardian University
from acting (naturalistic and not), to Ayckbourn… vlogging and gaming. In addition, students will have the opportunity to audition Guide 2019
for the SJT and be a part of a professional acting company in their third year.
*CU Scarborough is part of the Coventry University Group
A full course description and information on how to apply is available on the
CU Scarborough website www.coventry.ac.uk/cus/acting.
So you’re thinking of taking it to the
next level and acting professionally.
How do you get there? Everyone At the heart of the cultural life of Scarborough for more than sixty years, the Stephen Joseph Theatre has a
has an opinion on this - so here’s my unique connection with world-renowned playwright, Sir Alan Ayckbourn, who regards it as his home theatre.
pennyworth. The majority of his 80 plays have premiered there.
Professional acting work these days is The theatre continues to innovate with the introduction of an acting degree in association with CU
intermittent so that other thing you’re Scarborough, part of the Coventry University Group.
trained to do could be the key to
helping you enter and stay ‘in the Places available for September 2019. Apply now.
business’. Virtually every actor needs
a second income – the hard part is
to be able to earn money while still
being able to get to auditions. So, self-
employment can be ideal. Failing that, it
helps to have an understanding boss!
The biggest challenge is to be taken
seriously by the ‘gatekeepers’ – casting
directors, directors, and the higher-
status agents. They stake their reputation handful of conservatoire-schools That’s why the BA (Hons) Acting at
on the quality and reliability of the outside London – however only the CU Scarborough is run in formal
actors they work with - so you need to most prestigious few can help you land partnership with the Stephen Joseph
persuade them somehow you are both a good agent when you graduate. Theatre (SJT). This is no rubber-stamping
talented and reliable. exercise – the SJT people helped to
That leads us to universities and shape and write the degree, and they
Joining Equity, the actors’ union, is a colleges. Search the UCAS database, will be centrally involved in lots of
good start. But training is useful too. and you’ll see dozens of courses – elements, including the end-of-course
Everyone’s heard of RADA, so if you degree, HND and so on – offering professional showcases in London and
train there, or at one of the other top- to train you as an actor. The training the North. No-one can guarantee you
division UK schools, you’ll be leaving is less intensive – maybe three or four work as an actor, but they can help you
with a real badge of quality. But the hours a day, rather than eight – but get there, which is why the syllabus of
competition to get in is fierce, and even then at least you can take on part-time this degree is dedicated to sniffing out Photography by Mark Lamb
if you can get a loan to cover fees, your work alongside the course, to help you alternative sources of employment for
living costs in London will probably be survive. But the bit that’s often missing at actors. This includes linking you into the
the thing that keeps you awake at night, this level is exposure to the professionals other professional training on campus talk. 01723 336700 visit. CU Scarborough Ashburn Road,
when you should be learning lines! who might employ you when you – nursing, policing, business, and so on write. cus@coventry.ac.uk off Valley Road, Scarborough YO11
graduate. – to give you further evidence of your see. www.coventry.ac.uk/cus 2JW
There are alternatives, including a versatility. PARTNER ADVERTISING FEATURE
12 NODA Today - Summer 2019 13
Pantheon’s Three Show Year Richings Players Perform Play at
Girton College, Cambridge
NODA Scotland
NODA London
The Pantheon Club Glasgow are by Lewis Milne Photography and containment of a Zombie in a freezer
halfway through their three show year produced by Pantheon’s president in an Ardrossan café. Find yourself
- Cats, Smalltown, The 25th Annual David Robertson. trapped in three separate stories
Putnam County Spelling Bee. of Smalltown life, before you, the
Following the recent success of Cats, audience, vote to decide how the story
Pantheon has over 95 years of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Elf: The ends; making for a truly memorable
experience staging large scale Musical, Spamalot, Legally Blonde, evening of entertainment with partial
productions in Glasgow’s biggest Sister Act and Grease, Pantheon nudity, marsupial violence and zombie
theatres and is Glasgow’s largest returned to a more intimate venue with vomit! What’s not to love? At Websters
non-professional theatre organisation. Lovers, Urinetown, Men Should Weep, Theatre Glasgow from 8 to 12 October
We stage two to three shows per year and Into The Woods in the last two 2019
in venues across the city, with major years. Pantheon are back at Websters
productions usually being performed at Theatre Glasgow in 2019 with The 25th Annual Putnam County
The King’s Theatre. Smalltown and The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee
County Spelling Bee this autumn. Pantheon’s next musical will be the side-
Cats splittingly hilarious, wildly unpredictable
The Pantheon production of Cats Smalltown and heart-warmingly endearing The
at the King’s Theatre Glasgow this Smalltown is a dark, dynamic and 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling
spring was absolutely mesmerising delightfully outrageous wee Scottish Bee, the story of a group of socially
and truly stunning, with choreography comedy telling the story of what awkward teenage rejects battling
and direction by Chris J S Wilson, happens when contaminated water it out for the title of best speller in Iver's award-winning company, The opposition, culminating in a riot on the Girton... It's been an absolute privilege
musical direction by Kieran Young, (‘Rabbie Juice’) causes extraordinary Putnam County. Catch the big event at Richings Players, are honoured that streets of Cambridge. The so-called to spend time in this world, to imagine
lighting design by Jonnie Clough (Blue events to happen to ordinary people. Websters Theatre Glasgow from 12 to Girton College, Cambridge - the UK's 'blue stockings' had a long way to go, this story and to, I hope, honour those
Parrot Theatre & Live Events), bespoke Unleashing all sorts of comedic 16 November 2019. It’s going to be first residential institution for the higher but their strong spirit and persistence early pioneers in doing so. And now,
costume design and make up design carnage along the way; from rag- one hell of a showdown! education of women - has invited the were important elements in the story of to know it is being performed only a
by Emma Leigh Porter and June Young dolling on Girvan beach to the release company to perform Jessica Swale's suffrage, equality and emancipation for stone's throw from the portraits of the
at That Looks Good, photography of animal passions in Stewarton, to the David Cooke, Pantheon Club inspiring play Blue Stockings at a women. real Miss Welsh and Emily Davies is
Festival to celebrate the college's 150th such a thrill. I wish all at Girton the most
anniversary in June. Although Girton has spent more than fantastic and well-deserved celebration
of volunteers and young actors to put Award for Voluntary Service; and half its 150 years educating brilliant in their 150th Anniversary year."
A Fitting Award on a production of Bugsy Malone in numerous Awards and nominations The Players performed Blue Stockings women to levels of excellence
NODA East Soham Village. Playing to an audience from NODA. at Iver Village Hall in October 2018, comparable with, or better than, those The Mistress of Girton College,
of just 400 the company now put on directed by Sophie Torrent, and of men, they were unfortunately not Professor Susan J Smith, says: "My
productions to audiences of thousands In 2008 a converted Methodist Chapel received rave reviews from audiences. allowed to graduate until 1948. The favourite line in Jessica Swale's riveting
in a variety of theatrical arenas. was purchased enabling Viva to branch Sophie is delighted to take up the College has therefore always set play about Girton's early days is: 'we
into after-school drama clubs and the mantle of bringing this play to life again the pace on matters of equality and don't get buffeted by the wind, we
Viva’s Youth Theatre attracts young development of accredited training in its true setting, with many of her inclusion and continues to prioritise change its course'. As we approach
people from 5 to 25 years to audition such as LAMDA and the Arts Award. original cast. widening participation, alongside the 150th anniversary of our foundation,
for around 5 to 7 productions a Viva’s foundation evolved through academic achievement and all-around this on-site production by the Richings
year, and as its status has grown, Daniel’s inspired drive to bring The play, which opened at personal development for students and Players is a timely reminder of the
it has extended to incorporate an community theatre to young people Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in staff alike. triumph of hope over experience that
Adult Theatre group whose extensive for whom opportunities were few. His 2013, follows the challenges faced our College represents."
The Councillors Cup 2019 was programme of productions has vision has benefited many, and the by women in education at the turn of Rooted in real events in and around
awarded to Daniel Schumann of Viva received awards for the quality of its results of that vision continue to flourish. the Twentieth Century and sheds light Girton College, this will be the first time The play poses the very real question;
Arts and Community Group based in classical drama. Over the years Viva Daniel went on to study at the Central on this real event that coincided with the play has been performed on site, love or knowledge; which would you
NODA District 4S. Initially a small youth has gained a reputation for attendance School of Speech and Drama and is the growing campaign for suffrage. amid the Victorian buildings where choose?
group, founded in 1997 by Daniel, then at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with now a West End Director still involved It was just one step on the road to the story unfolded. Author of the play,
aged fifteen, who after borrowing fifty many productions receiving 5 stars. in enabling young people to follow equality of opportunity for women Jessica Swale says; "I am so delighted Will Torrent
pounds, gathered together a group Also, they have received the Queen’s their dream as he had. and was met with fierce and ugly that Blue Stockings is 'coming home' to
14 NODA Today - Summer 2019 15
A Little Lincolnshire Theatre with Unique Beginnings From Brigadoon to Vulgaria
NODA East Midlands NODA North
Brief Encounter 1955
Local Writer is Best
in Britain
NODA North East
Pateley Bridge playwright Keith
The Country Theatre Burton has been chosen to receive
Founded in 1961 Spittal Variety Group Imagine Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in the this year’s Geoffrey Whitworth
Alex Wood tells the story of The the 22nd March (1960), Tuesday a Methodist Chapel in Wickenby with have entertained audiences in the Borders! Award for the best play in Britain
Broadbent Theatre in Wickenby late rehearsal of Maria Martin ended Roy Broadbent being very instrumental Scottish Borders to a vast selection written by an amateur writer. And
at 12pm and HC, the last out of the in the project. The building was to be of productions over the years with Auditions were held not only for the his success is doubly rewarding
Conscientious objectors came to theatre, switched off the heating and called The Country Theatre but when variety, musicals but predominantly parts but also for people wishing to as he will be presented with his
Lincolnshire to farm during the Second lights. At 7am on 23rd March, VF as he Roy died the company, who were now pantomimes. be in the show - interest was immense! award in front of a home crowd
World War. In the evenings they went to his office opposite the theatre, named Lindsey Rural Players, decided Planning was intense for the production, because the awards ceremony is
sometimes read plays. Among their noticed smoke from the roof. He called to call the theatre The Broadbent. They Although sticking to the traditional but the greatest hurdle to overcome taking place in Harrogate.
number was a Quaker, Ray Broadbent, the Fire Brigade, who were quickly subsequently negotiated about buying pantos, we do sometimes stray on was the car. Due to building design at
father of Oscar-winning actor Jim on the scene. The fire started behind some land to the rear so they could occasion; staging in January 2019, The the theatre, the cars available for the The 2019 British Final of One-Act
Broadbent and a Frenchman called the proscenium arch, and the stage, build an extension in the late ’70s and Snow Queen, having in previous years show were unable to reach the stage!!! Plays is being held on 5th and 6th
Francis Cammaerts who later left to curtains, lighting etc. were entirely burnt; early ’80s. presented Snow White and also The What to do? Never known to be July at Harrogate Theatre. It is one
become one of the heroes of the French the roof above ruined.” Pied Piper as well. beaten the S.V.G. sent out a call to the of the most prestigious amateur
resistance. The 100-seat Broadbent Theatre local community asking for their help to drama events in the land featuring
The play was put on somewhere else, continues to thrive to this day. As well We have in our society now the fourth build our own car and received offers the champions of national festivals
After the war, a group called Holton and for the next several years there as the Players’ own productions it hosts generation of some families, proving from local engineers, mechanics and run by the All-England Theatre
Players was formed which included were suggestions about using the many companies from around the ourselves to be a family as opposed to tradesmen offering their services free Festival, the Drama Association of
some former COs. This group used insurance money to build a stage at country and even one from America. just a society. Indeed, after forty pantos of charge. Which goes to prove that Wales, the Scottish Community
an old Nissen hut, fully kitted out as a Wragby Town Hall or extend Holton This July Lindsey Rural Players will our resident Dame has recently hung up "Teamwork makes the dream work!" Drama Association and the
theatre, called the Country Theatre. Jim Hall. In the meantime the Players be celebrating the history of the his wigs and retired! Association of Ulster Drama
Broadbent made his acting debut here continued to meet in the magnificent theatre when they reprise A Certain After many headaches, which after all Festivals. The Geoffrey Whitworth
as one of the children in Ibsen’s A Doll’s drawing room of Holton Hall, staging Demographic – Conchies, which tells Only doing musicals (our first being is part and parcel of Am Dram, our Cup is the final award of the night
House. their productions in the bay window the story of the conscientious objectors Brigadoon in 1965) mainly when society has like many others covered all and guarantees a publishing
and making their entrances and exits who started it all. celebrating landmark anniversaries sorts of productions. So, having gone contract for the writer.
But this wasn’t to last. An extract from through the sliding sashes! 25yrs, 30yrs etc. or when unmissable from Brigadoon to Vulgaria, where will
the Player’s minutes book tells us what With thanks to Gail Dennis and Bill musicals become available, the we go in the future? Only time will tell! Keith’s winning script is his
happened next. “On the evening of But in 1970 the Players purchased the Bartlett for their help with this article. opportunity to stage Chitty Chitty Bang play A Penny for Them which
Bang was too good a chance to miss. Pateley Bridge Dramatic Society
performed in this year’s All-
Gladys Blackler England Theatre Festival.
9th March 1924 – 7th June 2019
NODA West Midlands Keith said: This caps-off a great
first half of the year following
It is with much sadness that we announce the death of Gladys Blackler who has the publication of one of my
passed away peacefully at the grand age of 95. In recent years she had been other plays ‘On False Premises’
living in a Worcester care home. which was a finalist in this year’s
Tennessee Williams One Act Play
Gladys served as a Regional Representative in Worcestershire and also was Festival. And Harrogate is so much
awards secretary for Midlands Region. nearer than New Orleans!
We remember Gladys with much fondness together with her late husband Stan,
both of whom moved to Worcester in 1970 after establishing an operatic society
in Banbury, Oxfordshire.
Our condolences, thought and prayers are with their son Colin and his wife Rose
and their daughter Liz, husband John and families.
16 NODA Today - Summer 2019 17
We Won’t Throw Away Our Shot! In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun
NODA North West
themed dance-a-thon to the songs
of Mamma Mia with participants
enhancing the atmosphere by wearing
flower garlands and fun accessories.
Sarah Osborne, Director of NODA
Summer School, ran an Actor’s
Toolbox session working on character
development through scripted pieces
and also awakened the interest of the
young people by telling them all about
NODA Summer School. The final
workshop responded to requests from
previous attendees to have a themed
singing workshop. Hamilton was
chosen, and the participants enjoyed
the challenging scores. The t-shirts
Now in its third year, the Youth Event at workshops. Additionally, the young for the event were designed by Rob
the NODA NE Gala Weekend aims to people saw some of what is available Williams at Head Office, and we were
provide a great introduction to the Gala at the weekend as well as viewing assured that they would be worn again
Weekend as well as providing exciting the evening cabaret performance of – promoting the NODA Youth brand.
workshops and the chance for young A Chorus Line by Guiseley Amateur
people to share in the excitement of the Operatic Society. All three workshops Feedback from those attending was “It all started last year in the summer Arts Afternoons, were taken up with every show, we ran around saying
nearly 700 members of the Region who were led by experienced, professional very positive, and plans are underway term when we were informed that our rehearsals. ‘Break a leg’ to all members of the cast.
gather together for this annual event. tutors who have supported NODA at a for an event in 2020. next production was going to be Mary We had a prop area where we had
regional and national level in terms of Poppins Jr. Everyone was very excited, With only a few weeks to opening to collect our props such as the sweep
Held at the Spa Complex in Bridlington delivering workshops. Jo Sykes and the school was buzzing. The night, we started having weekend brush, carpet bag and the parrot head
the day involved the opportunity to Youth Adviser-NODA North East auditions took place in our school hall rehearsals which lasted between umbrella.
attend dance, acting and singing The dancing workshop was a 2½ hour where we had to sing, dance and act a four and six hours. We also had the
monologue. It was a very tense time! opportunity to meet lots of new people We had lots of help from our school’s
such as the Radio Lancashire team and fifth-year pupils and sixth formers, all
At the end of the year, we were each Dermot O’Leary, who we performed to. our amazing teachers and, of course,
A Cinderella Story presented with a script and a letter to our Producer and Director, Mrs
NODA West Midlands say which part we had been given. The set came a week before the show, Shuttleworth, and our Assistant Director
The students that had landed principal and we were all so amazed at how and Choreographer, Shelley Stott.
part in the adult company. I first heard I pre-stage nerves as I wanted to give roles had to start learning their lines incredible it was, it was like a set It has been great fun working with
was Cinderella during rehearsals. I was an amazing performance. The first and songs straight away, which was a from a West End show! All our shows all our friends on the production of
slightly apprehensive at the beginning night was so special, I had support challenge that everyone accomplished. took place in the Summerlee Hall at Mary Poppins Jr., and it is definitely an
as I was playing alongside adults who from lots of family and friends. The last In September, we started rehearsals, the Senior School. We performed experience we shall never forget!”
had years of experience and did not performance was to a full house where and it was amazing to see the first two evening and two afternoon
want to let them down, but at the same the atmosphere and applause was scene coming together. performances. Brooke Medhurst (age 11) and
time, I was over the moon as I had fantastic, I will never forget it. Morgan Cuthbert (age 10)
been given this opportunity to prove During the months leading up to The crowds were huge, and all we ‘Mary Poppins’ and ‘Bert’
myself. I loved every minute of it. I enjoyed the show, lots of break times and could hear from backstage was the Kirkham Grammar School
playing poor Cinders but wearing the after-school sessions, as well as our excited murmur of the audience. Before
It was time to get organised. I made ball gown made me feel special and
sure my homework was completed on like a real princess. I loved being part
time and I highlighted all my lines and of a pantomime that so many people Llandudno Youth Music Theatre performer appears with the Welsh National Opera
concentrated on learning a page at a said they had enjoyed and I received NODA Wales & Ireland
Sophia Powers as Cinderella time. Between school and homework, I many compliments on my performance.
practised my lines whenever possible. It made all the hard work worthwhile. I Erin Hornsby, a 15-year-old member from the WNO Youth Opera.
felt very sad when the last performance of Llandudno Youth Music Theatre, has
Being Cinderella is never an easy task, There are always things that could go was over, I did not ever want it to end.' made her professional debut in the Erin, a pupil at Ysgol John Bright, said
she's an overworked, downtrodden wrong crossing your mind. I focused Welsh National Opera’s production of “I taught myself the song they had sent
and kind-hearted character who's on on the things I could control and found Since finishing Cinderella, Sophia has Mozart’s The Magic Flute. and recorded that. I also recorded a
stage or not far from it for the entire everybody at CLOC Adults were very appeared in a production of Joseph folk song I knew. The WNO emailed
production. So when 13-Year-old supportive, so I didn't have to worry. I and the Technicolour Dream Coat. The tour began in February 2019 in the back to ask if I could go down to
Sophia Powers auditioned for CLOC's would like to say a special thank you Auditioned and got the part of Oliver Millennium Centre Cardiff and finished Cardiff and audition. I was really
Cinderella little did she know she would to Teresa Biddell the producer and which she looks forward to playing this in Venue Cymru, Llandudno on 27th excited when I got the part as this is the
land this prestigious role and feel like a Rosemary Ravenscroft who both had July at the Highbury Theatre and also, April. biggest thing I’ve ever done and such
real princess. I caught up with Sophie to great faith in me from the start and also she will be playing the role of Tiger an amazing opportunity for me.
find out how she got on as she juggled to all the principal roles who guided me Lily in a production of Peter Pan at the In the production, Erin plays one of the
school, learning lines and taking to the along the way. Sutton Town Hall. three spirits who act as guardians and I feel very lucky to have been given this
stage on opening night. advisors in the performance. Erin got opportunity, and I hope to continue to
On the opening night, I was extremely Sophia Powers of CLOC and the part after sending a voice recording grow from this experience.”
'I did not expect to be cast as a leading excited but obviously had a few Janine Graeme Regional Editor of her singing after receiving an email
18 NODA Today - Summer 2019 19Children in Entertainment
A BOPA can be granted to an
organisation for a single performance
or for a series of performances within
a specified time providing no payment
is made to the child or to anyone else
The Definitive Guide for England and Wales in respect of the child taking part in the
performance and the child does not
require absence from school.
For the Definitive Guide for Scotland please visit our website noda.org.uk/factsheets Talk to your LA child employment officer
as this could take up to 21 days.
With thanks to Cambridgeshire County Council Children in Entertainment and the NNCEE
Legislation A performance licence Permitted hours of performance
The legislation below relates to: A performance licence is required of their approval and the ratio of With the introduction of the Children due to unforeseen circumstances, a performance or rehearsal lasts for not
• Children in entertainment, when one of the following applies - children (no more than 12:1) (Performance and Activities) (England) chaperone may give permission for more than one hour.
performing on stage or television, • When performing in a licenced • Child’s name, DOB and address, Regulations 2014 the permitted hours for a child to perform for an extra one
in film, or commercials. premises or area (including are they missing school all performances changed. The table hour for that age of child, if he/she If a child has taken part in a
• Children working in paid/ events/festivals) • Photo of the child – clear head and summarises the maximum permitted feels that the welfare of the child will performance or rehearsal on the
professional sport • When the child is receiving shoulders hours and breaks that apply for the not be prejudiced and the child has previous day, there must be a
• Children working as models payment for taking part • Have parents completed the different ages of children. These apply not already performed the maximum break of at least 16 hours before
• When the child has to take time off medical form/if they answer yes to all performances whether the children number of performance hours that day. they are present again at a place
The legislation that deals with children in school in order to take part in the include details are licensed or are performing without There must be an interval of at least of performance. For example, if a
entertainment is: performance or rehearsal • Birth certificate/passport a licence under Section 37(3)(a) of the one and a half hours between two technical rehearsal continued until
• The Children and Young Persons • When the performance is ticketed Children and Young Persons Act 1963. performance or rehearsals in the same 10:30pm one night, the child could not
Act 1933 Section 23 to 30 • When the performance is The table gives a summary of the day. The interval may be reduced to 45 attend a dress rehearsal until at least
• The Children and Young Persons broadcast A 4 Day Exemption regulations, however, where the minutes when two performances take 2:30pm the following day.
Act 1963 Section 37 to 44 performance has been delayed place at the same venue and the first
• The Children (performances and This licence can come in three forms If the child does not perform on more
Activities) (England) Regulations • a full performance licence than four days in any period of six
2014 • a 4 Day exemption months and no payment has been
Both of these are issued by the local made to the child or any other person Maximum number
of hours permitted Earliest and latest Maximum period Maximum number
The legislation requires that all children, authority where the child lives providing that there is no absence from of continuous of hours of
from birth until they cease to be of • a Body of Persons Authority school. Age of Child at place of permitted times at performance Minimum intervals for meals and rest
or performance or
compulsory school age, be licensed (BOPA) - issued by the Local performance or that place rehearsal rehearsal
by the local authority in which they live, Authority where the performance is A 4 day rule exemption rule would rehearsal
when they take part in a performance located. need to be issued by your Local
on stage or in broadcast. Authority. Any breaks must be for a minimum
If the activity is directed in any way, it Birth until child of 15 minutes. If at a place of perfor-
A child remains subject to these may be considered a performance and reaches 5 years 5 hours 7am to 10pm 30 minutes 2 hours mance or rehearsal for more than 4
regulations until the last Friday in June consequently may need to be licenced Body of Persons Approval old hours, breaks must include at least one
of the academic year in which they 45 minute meal break
turn 16. The academic year runs from 1 A Performance Licence A BOPA, if granted, removes the need If present at the place of performance
September to the 31 August inclusive. to apply for an individual licence or rehearsal for more than 4 hours but
A licence is granted by the Local for each child; it is granted to the less than 8 hours, they must have at
Authority (LA) where the child lives (this organisation that is responsible for the least one break
may not necessarily be the same LA performance. 5 years old until of 15 minutes
as the child’s school). The applicant child reaches 9 8 hours 7am to 11pm 2.5 hours 3 hours
years old
completes and signs their part of the The approval is granted by the local If present at the place of performance
performance licence application form authority where the performance is or rehearsal for more than 8 hours or
and the parent then completes and taking place; the local authority can more, they must have another break of
signs the other part. The complete form grant the approval even if the children 15 minutes
is then sent to the LA. The form and taking part do not live within its’ If present at the place of
attachments will include: boundaries. performance or rehearsal for more
than 4 hours but less than 8 hours,
• Who the applicant is It is the organisation which is they must have at least one meal
• Where is the performance/ approved not the children i.e. the break 45 minutes and one break
rehearsal venue local authority is confirming that the 9 years old until of 15 minutes
• When is the performance and the group or organisation is a ‘suitable’ school leaving 9.5 hours 7am to 11pm 2.5 hours 5 hours
rehearsal or ‘approved’ group and therefore age If present at the place of
• What is the child’s role/Health and must be certain that they (the Local performance or rehearsal for
Safety assessment Authority) have taken every reasonable more than 8 hours or more, they
• The child expected Call Time/Finish precaution to ensure the group is must have the above breaks plus
Time including travel arrangements indeed a suitable group. another break of 15 minutes
• Who are the chaperones/copy
20 NODA Today - Summer 2019 21You can also read
