The league held its 98th annual general meeting at The Playhouse recently with 35 members in attendance and a night of milestones — a leadership handover, two new life memberships, and the league’s first surplus in many years.
Retiring president Kevin Foley presented the annual report, closing out more than 15 years on the board and two stints as president. During his tenure, Mr Foley helped steer significant refurbishments at The Playhouse and lent his hand on stage, backstage and in the director’s chair.
Financially, the league reported a small surplus, achieved despite staging fewer shows than in recent years. Increased ticket sales and strong audience support underpinned the result, pointing to continued community appetite for local theatre.
Long-serving board member Alice Sollis was elected unopposed as president. Three new board members — Sarah Graham, Luke Robb and George Hollinsworth — join incumbents Nikki Carnegie, Eric Bindewald and Robyn Valentine.
The evening’s biggest announcement was the appointment of two new life members.
Chris Thomas was honoured for many years of service across governance, backstage and on stage. Over the past 15 years he has led fundraising efforts that have raised nearly half a million dollars for Playhouse facility upgrades, sound and lighting improvements, and most recently the HVAC system. This year Mr Thomas also stepped into the director’s chair for the sell-out production The Secret Lives of Extremely Old People.
On the night he updated members on the Theatre Royal project and current fundraising activity and outlined plans for a year of centenary celebrations in 2027 as the league approaches its 100th year.
Members acknowledged Mr Foley’s steady leadership and the commitment of volunteers, performers and audiences who keep The Playhouse humming. With refreshed governance, strengthened finances and a wide cast of talent, the league heads into its 99th year with confidence, continuing to welcome new participants on stage, behind the scenes and in the seats. — Supplied
