To download Curtain Call CLICK HERE Curtain Call May 2008

Annual General Meeting  19th Feb 2008

President’s Message
Election of 2008 Management Committee

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President’s Message

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It is hard to believe that it has been twelve months since I took office in the position of President. It has been a very busy and once again a very successful year.

My first official engagement was on Monday 5th March when Rotary Club of Ballina held their meeting at the theatre. There were 30 Rotarians and 22 Players in attendance. Players mingled with Rotarians over drinks and nibbles. Rotarians were invited to go backstage to visit the set of Tiptoe, wardrobe, makeup and dressing rooms. We also had the sound and lighting room open for anyone interested in finding out what goes on in that department. All agreed it was a very successful public relations evening.

Our four productions commencing with “Tiptoe Through The Tombstones”, followed by “Chess”, Cosi” and the year end  musical “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” once again provided a variety in entertainment and great theatrical experience for our audience as well as challenges for our very talented cast, directors and technical crew.

Paul Belsham called the cast of ‘Bless ‘Em All’ back for a revival. The show ran from 27th to 29th April in line with Anzac Day commemorations. Audiences’ at all four performances couldn’t thank us enough for putting this on once again. It was very emotional.

On Friday 13th July we assisted NAIDOC celebrations by providing the theatre for a variety show “Looking Forward, Looking Black”. This provided us with some valuable publicity making the front page of the Advocate.

New sponsors during the year were Richmond Mortgage $1000.00, and the NSW Chamber of Commerce $500.00.

Capital acquisitions during the year were new Stage Curtains, toilet refurbishments, and additional equipment for both sound and lighting.

Thanks to the effort of Peter Spill we were successful with an application for a grant of $6,000.00 from the Ballina Shire Council to assist with the cost of our new chairs.

In September we also presented Year twelve student drama awards to students at both Ballina High School and Xavier College. These awards were a perpetual trophy bearing the name of the student together with a $50.00 book prize. We are looking to continue this award with other high schools in Ballina joining the current two when they have a year twelve drama class.

The year 2008 commenced with the production of “High School Musical” directed by Mike Sheehan. This production was sold out prior to opening night, which I believe would be a first. A great production showing a very high standard of talented youth in our area.

I have enjoyed my first year as President some of which has been a real learning curve. I hope the experience will serve me well in the coming twelve months. I take this opportunity to thank my hard working team for their support over the past twelve months. I also thank directors, technical support, cast and crew of our many productions, all our wonderful workers backstage and front of house, the various committees who work behind the scenes and all members. It is the strong support team we have that makes Ballina Players the success it is. Keep up the good work.

Lyn Gale Hon President
19th February 2008

Election of 2008 Management Committee

Results of the election were as follows:

President            Lyn Gale (unopposed)

Vice Presidents
                        Peter Spill
                        Robyn Quinlivan
Treasurer            Geoff Marsh
Secretary            Di Ennew

President Lyn Gale thanked her outgoing Committee members and welcomed members of the incoming Committee

To download pdf file, CLICK HERE cc-dec-07-web.pdf

To download pdf file, CLICK HERE cc-feb-08-web.pdf

Curtain Call October 2007 is available as a pdf downloadable document

Click to download curtain-call-oct07.pdf

THE NEWSLETTER OF THE BALLINA PLAYERS INC - ISSUE AUGUST 2007

President’s Message

     Where has this year gone? I cannot believe we are already half way through what has once again been a very busy, but very successful year. The cast of ‘Bless ‘Em All’ had a terrific time performing four performances to help commemorate Anzac Day. Audiences couldn’t thank us enough for putting this on once again. It was very emotional, and the Committee thank the cast and crew for their efforts.
     “Chess” was our June musical directed by Sue and Paul Belsham, with a very talented cast of thirty one. Backed by an experienced team behind the scenes, it was another great success. This production required a lot of technical expertise and was presented very professionally. Auditions have been held and the cast of “Cosi” are into rehearsals. The show directed by Mary Richards will be performed in September, and with a very experienced cast will be one not to miss.
     On Friday 13th July we assisted NAIDOC celebrations by providing the theatre for a variety show “Looking Forward, Looking Blak”. This provided us with some valuable publicity making the front page of the Advocate. The show was opened by the Brian Kelly dancers who performed to the music of the didgeridoo. Bundjalung Elder Aunty Bertha Kapeen told the story of Henry the Mullet which was performed as a puppet show by the Krinkle theatre. We were then entertained by ‘Two Colour Mountain’, two girls singing their original material which was very good. After an intermission the play “Hopping” written and narrated by Monica Kapeen was performed by local jarjums (children). We also were entertained by Kadina Goori Dancers. Fourteen members of Ballina Players were there to assist with front of house, technical and backstage. I believe we should all be proud to have been able to get involved with the community spirit of NAIDOC.
     Our new stage curtains have been ordered and should be in place in time for our next production “Cosi”. Both Peter Spill and myself are busy working to get sponsorships to assist with the ever increasing cost of running the theatre and the cost of these curtains.
Lyn Gale PRESIDENT 

Players News

FRONT OF HOUSE BADGES

     If any of our wonderful front of house-workers accidentally wore their blank name badges home could they please return them to Mary ASAP. These badges are shared by all FOH staff.  Personal name badges can be ordered from Mary for $7.50 each. Please phone 6686 2662 if you would like to order one.

CONSTITUTION AMENDED

     At the General Meeting on May 15th members voted to accept recommendedchanges to the Constitution. These changes had been drawn up by a speciallyappointed Sub-committee and took account of member submissions. Copies ofthe Constitution are available from Mary at La Boutique or by contacting the Secretary, Jan Reimer on 6681 4705.

VOLUNTEER GARDENER

            We need a “frontyard blitz”  gardener. Is there anyone retired, or otherwise, who would like to take on the responsibility of tending our beautiful gardens.  Ring Mary for information or to volunteer.—–DRAMA AWARDS            On September 28th, Ballina Players will present a Perpetual Trophy and a $50 book prize to two local Year 12 students who have achieved the highest assessment mark in drama. This idea to promote young drama was developed by Mike Sheehan and will initially involve Ballina High and Xavier Catholic College.

SCRIPT WRITING WORKSHOP

     Anyone interested in attending a script writing workshop is welcome to come along to the theatre on Sunday 5th August from 10am until 2pm. The idea is to put together a script that can be used when the theatre has Open Days so that the public or students can have a go at acting. For more information contact James Webb on 66288470 or Jennie Duffield  on 6681 4103.

CAMEO PERFORMANCE

      Chess Assistant Director, James Webb, was more than happy to step in to take the role of the cameraman when Fergus McDermott was not available for two Chess performances. When Allen Ennew was called away for work commitments James again stepped in. In the final chess game, James kept the other on stage cast members entertained with his actual moves. Not being a chess player, James made some unorthodox moves much to the delight of those watching!

SUBMISSIONS FOR 2008 SEASON

      Submissions are called for members wishing to stage a production for the 2008 season.  Plays are usually staged in March, June, September and November of each year. The season includes Christmas pantomimes, revues, workshops etc.  This is necessary so a calendar can be devised around the needs of the various productions and theatre availability. After the calendar has been decided, no changes will be allowed except in exceptional circumstances; as in the withdrawal of rights. No late or verbal submissions will be accepted. 
     Members should have obtained permission from the rights holder to stage the show, supply a script for the committee to read and the submission should include a précis of the show, and information regarding costumes, props, set and technical needs.  A budget should be included. 
      Submissions should be in writing and reach the secretary by the October meeting.  We have developed a set of guidelines for members wishing to submit a play.  These can be obtained from the Secretary or Mary at LaBoutique.

glossary: Green Baize

Until the mid 19th century, it was common practice to lay a piece of green baize cloth or carpet on the stage when a tradgedy was being performed and actors were to die.This was to save their costumes from needing cleaning, but became a useful anticipation builder for the audience, especially if the cloth was laid during the interval halfway into the performance.

CHESS REVIEW

Under the headline of ‘Pawns, Politics and Paparazzi’, Margaret Simpson wrote a glowing review of Chess that was published in the Northern Star. Here are some extracts: “Chess is a daring choice, to offer audiences a different genre; Sagacious music [lovers] and theatre goers are assured of an entertaining performance; Di Ennew gives Florence beauty, passion and integrity; Chrissi Claff - stellar; Mike Sheehan as Freddie - American crassness and confidence; Dean Doyle - Broadway allure and appeal; Matthew Whittingham - like fine red wine, each note an indulgence;  Jude Sweeney - definite jazz feel.” 

PLAYERS PEOPLE PROFILES 

Chrissi Claff

Multi-talented Chrissi is a herbalist, vocalist, costumier and a writing/music student at SCU. As well she has played various beggars, cripples, prostitutes, widows and ageing divas throughout her seven year involvement with Ballina Players. Her most recent lead roles have included ‘Svetlana’ in ‘Chess’ and ‘Dorothy Brock’ in ‘42nd Street’.
Q. What makes a great day for you?
A. A walk in the forest, catching dinner and a show with Jack. (Chrissi’s husband).
Q. Favourite food?
A. Spicy, colourful, fragrant, exotic anything.
Q. Favourite song and  musical?
A. ‘Your Daddy’s Son’ from ‘Ragtime’ and ‘Sweeney Todd’ by Stephen Sondheim.
Q. Biggest phobia?
A. Making phone calls.
Q. Hidden talent?
A. I am brainal retentive.
Q. Would you swap shoes with anyone?
A. Who has a better life really?

Mike Ball

You’ll often see Mike Ball singing and acting on stage, usually wearing spiffy military uniforms. Always ready to lend a hand, Mike also works on set construction and has recently volunteered to be theatre archivist.
Q. Nostalgic theatre memory?
A. Appearing first on stage as a deck hand in the Australian premiere of ‘The King & I’ with the Sydney Light Opera Company.
Q. Share a proud moment?
A. Co-developing a school bus safety program for the State Transit Network. I also got to drive the last double decker bus in Sydney in 1986.
Q. Favourite holiday destination?
A. Carnarvon Gorge Q.4 dinner guests?
A. Michael Caine, Michael Crawford, Di Morrissey and Jennie Duffield.
Q. Hidden talent?
A. Painting
Q. Who would you swap shoes with?
A. Andrew Denton

Geoff Marsh

Geoff has been involved with amateur theatre for over 40 years and has experience with directing, stage management, light, sound and set construction. He & wife Wendy have been with Players for 2 years.
Q. What roles have you done with Players?
A. Oliver, Who Goes Bare, Worzel Gummidge, 42nd Street and Peter Pan.
Q. Nostalgic theatre memory?
A. Producing ‘The King & I’ involving 170 people at Narrabri High School in 1975.
Q. Favourite actors?
A. Peter Sellers  & Spike Milligan - although I don’t often play favourites-there’s so many things to enjoy!
Q. Great meal?
A. Rump steak and a Guinness.
Q. Hidden talent?
A. It is too well hidden-even I can’t find it.
Q. What would you change in the world?
A. Mans inhumanity to man. 

Nola Lucas

Nola and her husband Jack have been building props and providing costumes at Ballina Players for the last 8 years. Nola also appears in many of the musical shows including the recent ‘Chess’ and the ‘Bless Em All’ Cabaret.
Q. What’s your tip for theatre success?
A. Character development and learning lines. Also being prepared to make a fool of yourself and wear unflattering costumes.
Q. Biggest phobia?
A. First Sunday of show dress rehearsals.
Q. What do you wish you could change about the world?
A. Stop wars, poverty, crime, segregation, greed, cruelty, internet spam and surveys.
Q. Hidden talent?
A. Able to write comedy, singing & craft.
Q. Nostalgic theatre memory?
A. The time I had my first lead in a play (I nearly fainted). 

Talia Jade Fell

Talia debuted at Ballina Players as ‘Little Cosette’ in ‘Les Miserables’ in 2006. Talia and her mum, Robyn, juggled that huge commitment with Talia’s other responsibilities, including those as primary school captain at Ballina’s Emmanual Anglican College. Talia was the only child cast in the recent production of ‘Chess’.
Q. What’s your favourite play and/or movie?
A. Fiddler on the Roof and Charlie & the Chocolate Factory.
Q. Do you have any heroes?
A. Hilary Duff & my Mum.
Q. Do you have any pets?
A. Two guinea pigs named Po and Jasmine.
Q. Favourite music?
A. Irish music.
Q. Favourite colour?
A. Magenta-dark pink.

CHESS: June 8th-30th

 Band photo by Kim

 Backstage shots from Rod
 

Photos from Eddie and Narelle
Opening night on stage

Opening night at the bar

Happy Birthday Talia - celebrated backstage (Photo by Rod)

Extracts from Curtain Call May 2007
Newsletter of Ballina Players

PRESIDENT’S REPORT
It has been a very busy time since taking up the challenging office of Honorary President at the annual general meeting held on 20th February. I welcome our new executive team of Mary Richards and Robin Quinlivan as Vice Presidents, Jan Reimer as Secretary, and Eddie Richards continues as Treasurer. I commend Mary on her very successful three years as our President and trust I can live up to the expectations of those who voted me into this position.
My first official engagement was on Monday 5th March when Rotary Club of Ballina held their meeting at the theatre. There were 30 Rotarians and 22 Players in attendance. Players mingled with Rotarians over drinks and nibbles.
Some players provided entertainment including a couple of Rotarians who got into costume and appeared on stage. After a lovely dinner provided by Mary and Eddie, Cyril gave a talk on the early history of the theatre. Rotarians were invited to go backstage to visit the set of Tiptoe, wardrobe, makeup and dressing rooms. We also had the sound and lighting room open for anyone interested in finding out what goes on in that department. Mike Sheehan called Rotarians up from the front to audition for a piece called “Sitting Pretty”. This went over very well and provided more entertainment. All agreed it was a very successful evening.
Our March play ‘Tiptoe Through the Tombstones’ capably directed by Mary Richards with a cast of ten was a huge success and kept audiences guessing to the end. Auditions have now been held and the musical ‘Chess’ to be directed by Sue and Paul Belsham has been cast and is well into rehearsals. Paul Belsham has also called the cast of ‘Bless ‘Em All’ back for a revival. The show to run from 27th to 29th April. This will be over by the time this report goes to print however I am sure it will once again be a huge success.

Lyn Gale PRESIDENT.

WORD PLAY
May General Meeting
We need at least 50 people to attend our May 15th general meeting to vote on proposed changes to the Ballina Players Constitution. After the meeting the bar will be open and there will be nibblies and live music. Please come along at 7pm, enjoy the social contact and make any decisions truly representative.

Cosi Auditions
Auditions are being held on Monday 25th June for ‘Cosi’ to be directed by Mary Richards. Written by Australian playwright Louis Nowra it features a former university student trying to direct a group of patients in a psychiatric hospital and stage a production of Mozart’s opera Così Fan Tutte. The patients make up a wide spectrum including Doug, an obsessive pyromaniac; Cherry, a food-addicted romantic; Julie, a junkie; Roy a self obsessed man with a passion for theatre; Henry, an older, silent man; Ruth, obsessed with counting and Zac, a drugged up pianist. Call Mary Richards on 6686 2662 if you would like to organise an audition time.

A personal thanks
Speaking of Mary, she may have stepped down as president but were sure she will continue getting much done behind the scenes. As a business associate for some 20 years and long before I joined the theatre, I knew Mary and her gift shop ‘La Boutique’ as the public face of Ballina Players. On behalf of all members I would like to thank Mary for her energetic commitment to our theatre.

Robyn Quinlivan steps in
Robyn Quinlivan spends most of her time ‘off’ the stage as a director of many successful Ballina Player’s shows. However, she came to the rescue of Tiptoe through the Tombstones recently, when she took to the stage to fill in for Lee Hillyard who was suddenly hospitalised. Robyn showed her professionalism, learning the part of Henrietta Tomb in just 10 hours and giving a fine performance for just one night. Lee was then well enough to resume her role and the whole cast and crew offered grateful thanks to Robyn.

Chess rehearsals
Rehearsals for Ballina Players mid-year musical, Chess have begun, under the direction of Sue and Paul Belsham. Two newcomers to our theatre Jude Sweeney and Natalie Scott join the regarded talents of Mike Sheehan, Dean Doyle and Di Ennew in the lead roles. Chess will open on Friday, June 8th and tickets are available now from Mary at La Boutique or phone 6686 2662.

Ballina Players website
Have a look at the official Ballina Players website at

www.ballinaplayers.com.au

A big thanks must go to the Publicity Sub Commitee, especially James Webb who has volunteered an enormous amount of time to co-ordinate this venture. Well done!

THE BIG QUESTION!
If a turtle doesnt have a shell, is it naked or homeless ?

GLOSSARY
Skin Off Your Nose: Theatrical greeting originating in the 19th century when make-up was coarse and crude, and would peel skin off the face. Actors in the early part of last century could often be identified by their blotchy appearance. So the greeting meant that the person hoped the actor would keep in work and thus lose more skin from their face!

PLAYERS PEOPLE PROFILES
NEW PLAYER
Peter Spill
This is Peter’s first year with Ballina Players and he has managed to appear in three plays. When he’s not acting he and his wife Marlena are kept busy with 7 children, 15 grandchildren and 3 great-grandkids!
Q. What do you wish you could change about the world? A. Religious intolerance.
Q. What makes you laugh? …A. British comedy-almost everything up to and including ‘The Office.’
Q. Favourite food? A. Italian, preferably in Florence.

Q. Four dinner guests? … A. Shirley MacLean, Tony Bennet, Al Jolson, Ronnie Barker.
Q. Fave actors? …. A. Gene Hackman & Bette Davis.
Q. Fave music? …. A. Richard Clapton.
Q. Hidden talent? …. A. Ability to mimic.

TEAM PLAYER
Peter Harding
Pete and his wife Natalie (the brilliant choreographer) have been with Players for 4 years. They live with Mr Elephant Lizard, Ms Frilly-neck Lizard, Mr Echidna, Mr Koala & Mr Skink - who has a crush on Natalie.
Q. Biggest phobia? …. A. Answering personal people profiles.
Q. Are you superstitious? …. A. Just don’t mention ‘The Scottish Play.’
Q. Fave actor? …. A. Dustin Hoffman and David Hasselhoff, (dag or not he’s still a household name!)
Q. Four dinner guests? …. A. Robin Williams, John Cleese, Rowan Atkinson & Glen Robbins or Rob Sitch and the Goodies.
Q. Fave sport? …. A. Soccer.
Q. Fave Beatle? …. A. Ladybeetle.

TEAM PLAYER
Graham Whittingham
Graham has held various roles in the theatre during his five years as a member. Not only does he act, sing and dance, he also plays bass guitar in the band and is an excellent sound technician.
Q. What makes a great day for you? … A. Sunshine and laughter.
Q. Who would you swap shoes with? …. A. Jonathan Noyce - bass guitarist with Jethro Tull.
Q. Fave meal? …. A. Anything Thai & anything alcoholic.
Q. Nostalgic theatre memory? …. A. Playing 7 roles in ‘Red Hot and Cole.’
Q. Other interests? …. A. Music, Speculative Egyptology & Philosophy.
Q. Footy Team? …. A. Wests Tigers.
Q. What would you change about the world? …. A. End rampant corporatism.

BEHIND THE SCENES
Jan Rice
You will usually see Jan up to her elbows in soap suds, working tirelessly out front of house, gladly taking on the less glorious, but no less important jobs, that contribute to the smooth running of our theatre.
Q. Hobbies and interests? ….A. Writing, poetry and books-all of them!
Q. Greatest achievement? …. A. Two beautiful children, Linda & David.
Q. Have you been on stage? …. A. Yes - in Jack the Ripper.
Q. Fave music? A. All except country and western & rap - I love pan pipe.
Q. Fave meal? …. A. Steak and a good red wine.
Q. Hidden talent? …. A. Checking out guys - you never know - might meet a nice one!
Q. Who would you swap shoes with? …. A. No-one - I’ll just be me.

Contents

2007 Committee
From the Committee
Publicity
Social News
Next Curtain Call

2007 Committee

At the AGM in February the following Committee was elected.
President: Lyn Gale
Vice Presidents: Robin Quinlivan, Mary Richards
Treasurer: Eddie Richards
Secretary: Jan Reimer

From the Committee

At the Ordinary meeting on 20th March a number of items arising from the most recent Committee meeting were presented.

Subcommittees. The following sub-committees for 2007 were established or confirmed.
Publicity - continuing with same membership
Wardrobe- Chair: Nola Lucas; Members: Jack Lucas, Leonie Elliott, Kim Hernage, Jennie Duffield and Jackie Reidy; Committee representative: Lyn Gale
Technical- Chair: Paul Belsham, Committee representative: Eddie Richards
Works- Chair: Mike Sheehan, Members: Eddie Richards, David Clark, Warwick Binney, Paul Belsham

Theatre Archivist: Mike Ball
Make-up Mistress: Wendy Dunger

Dinner shows.Dinner shows will be discontinued because of the Committee’s belief that the theatre does not provided suitable facilities for storage and preparation.

Stage curtains. These are suffering from use and age so Peter Spill and Geoff Marsh will investigate their replacement, with assistance of the Technical Sub-Committee.

Publicity

Ballina Players members donned costumes and took to the streets on Wed 28th March to promote Law Week, as well as the Theatre and our 2007 season.

Both the Advocate and the Northern Star took photos and featured in print our convict, bobby, tarts, ladies and judge.

Social News

Wendy and Geoff Marsh recently returned from an extensive sightseeing trip to Vietnam. It was also a working trip for Geoff who was researching alternative approaches to using our stage trap door.

Curtain Call

The next edition of Curtain Call is due on 1st May.

President’s message

A big welcome to 2007 to you all.  This year we will be celebrating 52 years as the Ballina Players and 23 years in our own theatre. We have continued to go from strength to strength as shown by our calendar planned for 2007.
We had a marvellous year of shows in 2006, and each one a record breaker. When you count up the size of the cast, just add another 50 or more extra team members, directors, choreographers, lighting, sound, musicians, set builders, costumes, makeup, backstage crews, front of house, bar staff, publicity and the list goes on. Each member can pat themselves on the back and take credit for the success that Ballina Players has become over the years.
   Three years ago I was honoured to be elected as your President, and have enjoyed every minute of it.  I brought with me the motto - T.E.A.M., (Together Everyone Achieves More) and I thank my wonderful Committee for their commitment and friendship, and all our members and supporters for helping to achieve what we have so far.
While we rocket into 2007 we must not lose sight of the objectives of Ballina Players which has made it so successful over the past 52 years -
   - to provide live theatrical entertainment and to foster public interest in all aspects of the theatre, and
   - to develop members’ abilities in all aspects of live stage production and to instruct them in the techniques of the theatre.
   Let’s all be good caretakers for the future “Players”.

Mary Richards PRESIDENT.

ANNOUNCEMENT: Annual General Meeting

Tuesday 20th Feb at 7pm
All welcome
Agenda:
1. Feb ordinary meeting
2. Election of office bearers for 2007

In Production - Tiptoe

Auditions were held in early December for the March production, Tiptoe through the Tombstones. The cast managed to fit in a couple of red-throughs before Christmas, ready to hit the boards running after the break.
It’s great to welcome back Peter Harding, in the role of Vernon Hewitt and to welcome for the first time Victoria Kennedy (Zoe Mapleton). Joining the Tomb family is the Whittingham family, Graham, Matt and Jaime who join Lyn Gale, Peter Spill, Leisa Wells, Fran Legge and Lee Hillyard.
Opening night is 16th March.

Reflections - Peter Pan

They say “you should ever work with children or animals” but the terrific cast of the recent musical, Peter Pan included over 50 children, one big dog and one comic crocodile. There is much behind the scenes involvement for a
show like this; every parent/chauffeur who commits to their child’s rehearsal/show schedule, the roster of mums
and dads who feed, clothe and look after the children, makeup, wardrobe and all the backstage volunteers.

A huge thanks to everyone involved with a special mention to den-mothers Robyn Fell and Jenny Southon. Also congratulations to all the quiet, well behaved, talented, organised children!

Barbara Courtenay

January 16th, 2007 marked a one year anniversary since the sad loss of our friend Barbara Courtenay. Her family quietly planted a tree in the front gardens of the theatre in tribute recently. A life member of Ballina Players, Barbara directed close to twenty shows since 1985. Her contribution to our theatre, both on and off the stage, her humour and her spirit, is greatly missed.

ANNOUNCEMENT: Chess - Auditions

Monday 26th and Tuesday 27th March. in the evenings.
We need 8-9 strong male vocalists, 3-4 strong female vocalists and a large company age 15 years and up.
Please phone Mary on 6686 2662 for an audition time.

Chess - The show

Chess the musical was created by Tim Rice along with Bjorn Ulvaeus and Benny Anderson (the guys from Abba) and as a result the music is sensational!
   In early productions a great deal of effort went into the technical aspects of production and as a result some of the magic was lost. In the new version the story centres on a love triangle between two players in the world chess championships, and Florence a young woman with a passion for Chess and a tragic history as a little girl growing up in war- tom Hungary.
   Songs from this musical include One Night in Bangkok and I Know Him So Well, which both charted internationally in the mid eighties. If you loved Les Miserables although very different, Chess will not disappoint you.
Chess will be directed by Sue and Paul Belsham and requires a large company who are on stage a great deal and have some fabulous singing throughout the show.

Bless ‘Em All

Cabaret Revival. Songs of the war, tap your toes and dab your tears.

27th to 29th April, evening and matinees. Book now.

Staging update

All Ballina Players shows rely on the great work of the team in the sound and lighting booth and we need more! Any persons wanting to get involved & willing to learn please contact Eddie or Mary Richards on 6686 2662.

Publicity News

Last year Ballina celebrated its 150th birthday &4th the launch of a book on the region’s history. Ballina Players sponsored the page ‘1955′ which included a short account of our beginnings and what we’ve grown to become today. The Theatre has a copy of the book, which will be stored in our archives and brought out for ceremonial occasions.

Players’ People

Amanda Isaac
Amanda is happily married to Greg and has three children, Sam, Hannah and Elizabeth. It’s her first year with Ballina Players and she appeared as Fantine in Les Miserables and as Mrs Darling in Peter Pan.
Q. Nostalgic theatre memory? A. At a school concert, singing “Tomorrow” from “Annie” when everyone, including me realised I could sing.
Q. Other interests?  A. Reading, scrapbooking & friends.
Q. Fave holiday?  A. Tasmania and Caloundra.
Q. Fave drink?  A. Gin & tonic

Beccy Sheehan
Beccy is starting Year 9 at Alstonville High and is a keen singer, dancer, swimmer and debater. She can also touch her nose with her tongue!                
Favourite movie? ………….. Van Helsing & Pirates of the Caribbean
Favourite actor? ………….. Johnny Depp
Four people you’d invite for dinner? ………….. Johnny Depp and three very plain, boring girls!
Biggest phobia? ………….. Heights
Who would you swap shoes with if you could ? ………… Someone with bigger feet who doesn’t have foot fungus

Kalani Armstrong
You may recognise Kalani from his NutriGrain TV commercial. He’s recently appeared for Ballina Players as the lost boy “Slightly” in Peter Pan.
Q. Favourite movie?     A. Happy Feet.
Q. Who is your hero?   A. Robbie Williams
Q. Have you done any other acting? A. Yes a pilot for a TV series.
Q. Favourite sport?  A. NRL
Q. Which team? A. Dragons & Sharks.
Q. Fave food? A. Sushi
Q. Fave drink? A. H2O

Amy Traise
Amy has just passed her School Certificate and has worked in the last four Player’s musicals since January 2006.
Q. Favourite animal? A. Monkey.
Q Favourite flower?  A. Frangipani.
Q. Hidden talent? A. I can make my eye twitch
Q. Favourite music? A. Anything but rock.
Q. Favourite sport? A. Playing cricket-but watching it isn’t.
Q. Favourite actors? A.Oliver James and David Tennant.
Q. What do you wish you could change about the world? A. No racism.

2007 Calendar

APRIL 17th        General Meeting
 27th-29th        Bless Em All Cabaret
MAY 15th          General Meeting
JUNE 8th-30th  Chess
        19th         General Meeting
JULY 17th         General Meeting
AUG 21st          General Meeting
SEPT 7th-22nd  Cosi
        18th         General Meeting
OCT                  Cabaret
        16th         General Meeting
NOV 16th-8th   Best Little Whorehouse In Texas
        20th         General Meeting
DEC 18th          General Meeting
JAN  2008        Godspell
MAR  2008       Key for Two