The dedication and enthusiasm of young Oamaru Operatic Society member Daniel Martin has been rewarded with the presentation of a national award.
Mr Martin (23) received the Nola Speir Patron's Encouragement Award, after being chosen from nominations made by musical theatre societies throughout New Zealand.
The late Nola Speir, a former patron of Musical Theatre NZ, was passionate about encouraging young members.
The award was instigated three years ago.
Oamaru Operatic Society delegates were "blown away" when the announcement was made at Musical Theatre NZ's annual conference in Queenstown last weekend, society member Pat Gunn said.
Mr Martin was presented with his award last week in Oamaru at the society's annual meeting.
He was "totally gobsmacked" as he did not know that he had been nominated, nor that he had won it, Mrs Gunn said.
Mr Martin started his theatrical career with the society as a munchkin in the 1997 production of The Wizard of Oz.
President Catherine Taylor said the executive and senior members of the society were delighted to have seen him grow, with regard to his commitment and attitude to all facets of the society, on and off stage.
