Petersfield Theatre Group

PETERSFIELD THEATRE GROUP has been created from the merger of two of Petersfield's longest running and most respected production companies - Petersfield Operatic Society and Petersfield Hi-Lights Society which amalgamated to become Petersfield Theatre Group.

The Operatic Society had specialised in the operas of Gilbert and Sullivan for the past 80 years, while the Hi-Lights had performed musicals for the last 40 years. Both societies won many awards for the quality of their productions and had gained enviable reputations in the South of England.

One man who is familiar with both groups is Roger Wettone, who worked as director and performer for both since the 1970s. He said the new group would continue to perform its existing repertoire of Gilbert and Sullivan operettas and modern British and American musicals; but is looking to stage other, more adventurous, works, perhaps at other venues. Emphasis will also be placed on the development of the theatrical skills of the members to encourage them to take on roles that they have not so far considered, such as stage management, musical direction or choreography.

Mr Wettone added "It was a logical move to create one society as there was a lot of commonality between the groups; they had many members in common, shared scenery and storage space etc. It was also getting more expensive to stage shows and, with the pressure on audience numbers in the current economic climate, it was important to create a more financially secure society."

The two former societies literally went "out with a bang" as the final Hi-Lights production fell victim to the fire at the Festival Hall last May when the last three performances of "Calamity Jane" had to be cancelled. Also lost was the Hi-Lights collection of costumes which had been built up over 20 years and was stored at the Festival Hall .

Despite these setbacks, the new group is starting life with one of the most outstanding musicals ever written, Frank Loesser's "Guys and Dolls", which will be performed at the Festival Hall on the 20th - 23rd May 2009. Tickets will be available from Tourist Information Office from 17th April 2009.

If you would like any further information about the Petersfield Theatre Group please contact the secretary, Brenda James on 01730 893328 or email her at b.a.james@btinternet.com.

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