After 10 shows over 10 days for about 2500 spectators, the curtain fell on the successful Showbiz Queenstown production of the musical Oliver! on Saturday night.
However, the season was not complete until the Showbiz Awards were presented at the after-show party, which was held in the Queenstown Memorial Hall.
Company member Emily Burns was awarded the Showbiz Queenstown Scholarship of $500 by society life member Greg Thompson.
The fund will pay for lessons to advance Emily's musical theatre career.
Wardrobe manager Jan Maxwell was given the Committee Award by life member Graeme Williams in recognition of her working above and beyond the call of duty.
Company member Samuel Farr was presented with the Hoofer's Award by life member Cheryl Collie.
Director-choreographer Stephen Robertson selected the 19-year-old for showing the most personal growth as a performer.
Jim Gibson, of the set construction team and stage crew, was handed the Doug Kamo Crew Excellence Award by life member Marty McLay (Fagin).
Mr Robertson selected Mr Gibson in recognition of his contribution, technical know-how, good spirit, commitment and attitude.
Fiona Stephenson (Nancy) won the Kenny Maurice Memorial Award for staying cheerful under pressure and making a positive contribution to the good spirit of the show by her manner and bearing.
Fiona was selected by the cast and the award was presented by life member Sandy Cochrane.
Fiona also scooped the Allen Cheak Memorial Trophy for displaying the most personal development during rehearsals.
The recipient was chosen by Mr Robertson and the award was presented by life member Fae Robertson.
Showbiz Queenstown president Alex Derbie chose Mark Ferguson for his President's Pick award. Ferguson won the award for his contribution to the show and the society and was given the accolade by life member Kathleen Brentwood (Widow Corney).
All 20 child performers were given an eating bowl, which had been personalised with their photograph inside, plus a certificate of congratulations.
Several crew members borrowed costumes and spoofed a segment from the musical for the entertainment of the cast.
Derbie told Queenstown Times the Showbiz executives were pleased with the outcome of the production of Oliver!, particularly as it brought so much pleasure to young and old with its memorable songs.
Chorus numbers including 'Consider Yourself' and 'Who Will Buy?' had been especially well received, he said.
"The most rewarding thing is the enthusiasm and appreciation we've seen from young members of the audience.
"This was very evident on the matinees, when the audience was comprised of about 75% children.
"Many sat mesmerised by live theatre and to see their friends performing."
Derbie said Showbiz hoped to make an announcement soon about their 2011 production.
"Royalty negotiations are in progress."
