Beaumaris Theatre Inc. acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Owners of the land on which Beaumaris Theatre stands. We pay our respects to Victoria's First Peoples and their Elders past, present and emerging.
CONTENTS
Click on the headline below to jump through each section of the program.
from the writer
DIRECTOR’S NOTES
CAST & CREATIVES
ABOUT BEAUMARIS THEATRE
Theatre in Beaumaris: The History
Thank you to our supporters and sponsors for continuing to support Beaumaris Theatre.
This show’s varied content has been created for the enjoyment of all patrons. There’s a historical tribute to Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th anniversary, fun glimpses into the decades with smatterings of social commentary, the frivolity of Santa’s Workshop at the North Pole, sing-a-longs to popular songs from the eras, and original songs.
Challenges with adapting the 50th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue script for a 70th anniversary tribute included deciding where to cull to accommodate two additional decades, and envisaging whether 2023 audiences will appreciate the same humour as in 2003. Social attitudes have changed over the past 20 years, but overall, hopefully, good old-fashioned, even corny, laugh-out-loud humour appreciation has remained the same.
I was delighted that Debbie Keyt agreed to direct this 70th anniversary show. Debbie’s positive nature infuses wonderful energy into her productions, and her respect for the writer’s original vision is greatly appreciated. Thanks also to Rhonda Vaughan (Musical Director) for arranging the original songs for the band, and to Camilla Klesman (Choreographer) for bringing the music alive visually with dance moves.
Mega good wishes to Debbie Keyt and her delightful cast and crew for a successful season of Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue. To you, the audience, thanks for attending.
I do hope you enjoy celebrating Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th birthday.
Cheryl Threadgold
It was a thrill 20 years ago to be invited to audition for our 50th Anniversary Panto-Revue and to be cast as the Maria Doll and fulfil a life-long dream of ‘being’ Maria as well as the 1960s Decade performer, which was the decade I was born in. We had an absolute ball and so did our audiences.
A couple of years ago, Cheryl approached me and asked if I thought there was a chance, Beaumaris Theatre would be keen to revisit an updated version for our special 70th Anniversary and would I like to direct it this time. How could I refuse such a wonderful offer!
It is sincerely an honour and a privilege to be staging Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue, which serendipitously happens to be our 300th production too. Cheryl’s passion for the project is inspirational and her dedicated research over a twenty year period is truly commendable. The beautifully unique script is informative, clever, funny and entertaining and taking the reprisal from page to stage has been a joy.
I am delighted to be collaborating with my dearest friends Rhonda and Camilla once more and their musical and choreographic talents are exceptional.
Heartfelt thanks to Adam and Fred for their technical genius and obliging manner and we’re so fortunate to have George and Zara carrying out the tech duties.
I am profoundly thankful to Jen, Sam and Cheryllyn for their marvellous creativity and imaginative flair and for designing such exquisite costumes to bring the decades and North Pole folk alive in full colour and exuberant vibrancy.
Our terrific artistic team has been completed by Pietro, Ella and Deb helping with the set and props to create the magic of theatre.
Extra special thanks to our behind-the-scenes ‘elves’ led by Lynda, Fiona and Steve with help from Jeremy, Colin, Colin, Kerry, Ellie, Lorraine, Annalei and Amy for industriously and meticulously carrying out the thousand and one tasks required to transform our stage to the enchanted North Pole and help us time travel throughout the exciting decade scenes. Lovely Lynda is also responsible for creating our magnificent Christmas wonderland and a celebratory feel in our foyer to welcome and transport our audiences on a fabulous adventure.
How splendid it has been to hand-pick our extraordinary dream cast- Steve, Bernie, Mark, Ellie, Andrea, Kerry, Claire, Fiona, Angus, Barb, Juliet, Lynda, Ross, Stephen, Brontee, Amy, Annalei, Kate, Tracey, Mary, Cheryllyn, Bella, Sue, Stew, Lorraine, Emma, Colin, Colin and Karen: our rehearsals have been an utter pleasure as we worked together to make our tribute show the very best it could be and a nostalgic stroll down memory lane alongside the shenanigans of Santa’s workshop.
Heartfelt thanks to our current committee, Trevor, Dan, Robyn, Steve, Jen, Kristina, Deb, Lynda, Fiona, Adam, Harrison and Georgy who together produce theatre of the highest standard that both entertains and challenges while creating a friendly, happy and nurturing environment for our thespians and audiences alike.
Now it’s time to share our passion and enjoyment with our appreciative audiences as we take you on a sentimental journey and celebrate all that we love about Beaumaris Theatre and our very rich history and all that we have to look forward to ahead…
Deb Keyt, Director
MUSICAL NUMBERS
Original Songs *
Written by Cheryl Threadgold
Arranged by Rhonda Vaughan
ACT 1
Overture*- Panto- Revue Band
“Beaumaris Revue”* – Ensemble
“Skivvies’ Song Links” *- Keith & Skivvies
“Decades Song”* - 1950, 1960, 1970, 1980, 1990, 2000, 2010, 2020
“Us Elves”*- E1, E2, E3, E4, E6, E7, E8
“Naughty ‘n Nice Elf”* - E5
“Toys Alive”* - Bride Doll, Maria Doll, Trevor Teddy
“Ho! Ho! Oh! Oh” * - Santa, Mrs Claus & Elves
Plus:
“Oh My Goodness”- Betty-Lou (and Mum)
Revel H/ Gordon M, BMG Rights Management (Australia)
“That’ll Be the Day”- Ensemble & Audience sing-a-long
Allison J/ Holly B/ Petty N Southern Music Publishing Co (Aus/Asia) P/L
“Hey Big Spender”- Betty-Lou (and Mum)
Coleman D/Fields C, Wise Music 1 Pty Ltd
“Saturday Night at the Movies”- Ensemble & Audience sing-a-long
Written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil © Screen Gems-EMI Music Inc. Licensed by EMI Music Publishing Australia Pty Limited
“I Will Survive” – Betty-Lou (and Mum)
Dino Fekaris and Freddie Perren 1978
Universal Music Publishing PTY LTD
“Can’t Stop the Music”- Ensemble & sing-a-long
Written by Henri Belolo, Jacques Morali, Phil Hurtt and Beauris A. Whitehead © 1980 Gailee’ Publishing
ACT 2
Overture* - Panto-Revue Band
Finale* - Ensemble
Plus:
“The Loco-motion” – Betty-Lou (and Mum)
King C/Goffin G. EMI Music Publishing Australia Pty. Ltd
“Downunder” – Soloists Amy & Emma with Ensemble and audience sing-a-long
Hay C/Strykert R. EMI Songs Australia Pty. Ltd.
“Wannabe” - Betty-Lou (and Mum)
Rowe, Beckham, Brown, Bunton, Chisholm, Halliwell & Stannard 1996, Universal Music Publishing Pty. Ltd.
“Mambo No 5- A Little Bit Of”- Ensemble and audience sing-a-long
Lubega B/ Pletschacher C/ Prado D Southern Music Publishing Company (A’Asia) Pty. Ltd.
“You Made Me Love You”- Betty-Lou (and Mum)
Monaco J/ McCarthy J
“Jingle Bell Rock”
Beal J/Boothe J. Essex Music of Australia Pty. Ltd.
“Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer”
Marks John D. Peermusic Pty. Ltd.
“Santa Claus is Coming to Town”
Coots J/Gillespie H. EMI Music Publishing Australia Pty. Ltd.
Audience sing-a-long with Santa, Mrs Claus, Keith & Ensemble
Panto-Revue Band
Rhonda Vaughan- Conductor & Keyboard
Keith Morgan- Drums/Percussion
Bill Clark- Bass
CAST
IN ORDER OF APPEARANCE
E1 – Santa’s Accountant – Mark Stewart
E2 –Sweet Treats Elf- Ellie Martin
E3- Santa’s Gift Wrapping Elf- Andrea Bashfield
SKIVVIES- Brontee French, Amy Sacco, Annalei Warren, Kate Squires
Keith- Stephen White
Betty- Lou- Tracey Mitchell
Betty-Lou’s Mum- Mary Bryant
1950- Cheryllyn de Vries
1960- Lynda French
1970- Bella Barker
1980- Sue Hand
1990- Stewart Warren
2000- Lorraine Ellis
2010- Emma Stewart
2020- Colin Buckley
1950s Domestic Sketch- Cheryllyn de Vries, Colin Prossor, Amy Sacco
Santa Claus- Steve Morris
Mrs Claus- Bernie Kinsella
E4- Magic Toy Making Elf- Kerry Hollier
E7- Apprentice Elf on Work Experience- Angus Wilson
E8- Trainer & Keeper of Santa’s Reindeer- Barbara Mendleson
Maria Doll- Lynda French
Bride Doll- Juliet Charles
Trevor Teddy- Ross Hand
E5- Naughty and Nice List Administrator Elf- Claire Ruberu
1960s Domestic Sketch- Lynda French, Colin Prossor, Brontee French
1970s Domestic Sketch- Bella Barker, Juliet Charles, Colin Prossor, Annalei Warren
Airport Attendant- Stewart Warren
Demonstrators- Bella Barker and Emma Stewart
1980s Domestic Sketch- Sue Hand, Ross Hand, Lorraine Ellis, Colin Prossor
Supermarket Scene- Colin Prossor, Claire, Angus, Barb, Lorraine, Karen, Juliet, Ellie, Kate
1990s Domestic Sketch- Stewart Warren, Karen Shnider, Colin Prossor
2000s Domestic Sketch- Lorraine Ellis and Stewart Warren
2010s Domestic Sketch- Emma Stewart, Coin Prossor, Kate Squires
2020s Domestic Sketch- Colin Buckley, Lorraine Ellis, Sue Hand, Karen Shnider, Stewart Warren
President of Beaumaris Theatre 2023- Trevor Osburn
Production Team
Script & Original Lyrics- Cheryl Threadgold
Director- Deb Keyt
Musical Director – Rhonda Vaughan
Choreographer- Camilla Klesman
Stage Manager – Fiona Williams
Stage Crew- Deb Carpenter, George Klesman & Cast
Set Designer –Cheryl Threadgold
Set Consultant- Pietro Giordano
Set construction & decor – Jeremy Keyt, Steve Morris, Lynda French, Fiona Williams, Colin Prossor, Colin Buckley, Adam Solomon, Damien Calvert, Deb Carpenter, Kerry Hollier, Ellie Martin, Lorraine Ellis, Zara Solomon, Ben Solomon, Annalei Warren, Amy Sacco, Bernie Kinsella, Mary Bryant and Sue Hand
Toy Machine- Ella Creaton
Props – Deb Carpenter
Props Assistant- George Klesman
Costumes – Jenni Osburn, Sam Davies, Cheryllyn de Vries & Cast
Sound designer & operator – Adam Solomon
Lighting designer – Fred Pezzimenti
Lighting & sound operator – Zara Solomon & George Kapaklis
Foyer Décor- Lynda French
Flyer and program design - Luisa Marrollo
Photography - Tim Tselepis and Pietro Giordano
Videography - Tim Tselepis
Marketing - Kristina Doucouliagos
Front of House Volunteer Coordinator - Fiona Williams
Front of House Manager - Trevor Osburn
Box Office - Beaumaris Theatre Inc. Committee
Front of House staff - Beaumaris Theatre members and friends
Raffle- Jenni Osburn
Special thanks to Cheryl & Malcolm Threadgold for the loan of props and costumes and to Anna Johnston.
Dr Cheryl Threadgold OAM - Script & Original Lyrics
The Melbourne Observer honorary theatre writer/review coordinator since 2005, Cheryl also convenes the Bayside U3A Writers Group, directing the writers’ radio plays for broadcast on 88.3 Southern FM. Playwriting includes Oscar Wilde adaptations for Black Rock Uniting Church productions, Beaumaris Theatre’s 50th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue (2003) and the award-winning The Jewel by the Sea which has now played five seasons at Black Rock House. Cheryl researches/writes stories for Theatre Heritage Australia’s On Stage magazine and chairs the THA Oral History Committee. Her oral history projects include interviews with playwright Barry Dickins (2022) and Professor George Werther AO (2023). Public speaking (2023) includes in conversation with Barry Dickins at The Channel, Arts Centre Melbourne, and ‘Talking History’ at the Eureka Centre, Ballarat. Cheryl is also Vice-President of the ABC Reunion Club.
Her book In the Name of Theatre: the History, Culture and Voices of Amateur Theatre in Victoria, based on the award-winning 2019 PhD thesis with Swinburne University of Technology, won the 2020 PROV Collaborative Victorian Community History Award.
Cheryl performed at Beaumaris Theatre in Summer and Smoke (1959), Hiss the Villain (1961), Steel Magnolias (Director, Debbie Keyt 2006) and directed Dimboola as Anonymous Theatre (2009). Sixty-four years since first performing at 82 Wells Road, Cheryl is proud to have written Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue.
Deb Keyt –Director
Deb is delighted to be celebrating her beloved Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th Anniversary in her 60th birthday year as well as the milestone of the 20th Anniversary of her directorial debut and 20 years on the Committee.
Her directorial credits are: Return to the Forbidden Planet; Smiley- the Musical; The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe; Steel Magnolias; Charlotte’s Web; Anne of Green Gables; Peter Pan; The Sound of Music; Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella; Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat; Happy Days- A New Musical; 13-the Musical; The Little Mermaid JR; Grease; The Jewel by the Sea (2016 & 2022); A Chorus Line; Cinderella- the Pantomime; Chicago; Buddy- the Buddy Holly Story; Anne & Gilbert- the Musical; Jack & the Beanstalk- a Panto and Beaumarisical.
Deb joined Beaumaris Theatre in 1996 and over the years has played a fabulous selection of roles on our stage. She founded D.K Productions in 2001 teaching aspiring stars all about Theatrecraft. In 2009, Deb was awarded Life Membership of Beaumaris Theatre and in 2021 was chuffed to be awarded the Music Theatre Guild of Victoria’s prestigious Edith Harrhy Award for outstanding service to Musical Theatre.
Deb’s role as adoring Nan Nan to Chase and Cooper will be extended in 2024 with the arrival of her first granddaughter.
Deb would like to dedicate this production to the memory of her darling Mum, Thelma, who recognised her desire to be a thespian and encouraged her to follow her passion wholeheartedly.
Rhonda Vaughan- Musical Director
Rhonda was thrilled to be asked to be the Musical Director for the return of Cheryl’s Panto-Revue. Having been involved with the show when it was first performed 20 years ago, it’s great to see how Cheryl has adapted the show to accommodate another two decades. Audience participation is encouraged when we sing the songs chosen to represent each decade!
Rhonda has been involved with many shows at Beaumaris Theatre since 2003, mostly as Musical Director including Return to the Forbidden Planet, The Sound of Music, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Happy Days- a New Musical, 13-the Musical, The Little Mermaid JR, Grease, A Chorus Line, Chicago and Buddy- the Buddy Holly Story.
Special thanks to Keith Morgan and Bill Clark who make up our band for this show.
Camilla Klesman- Choreographer
Camilla is thrilled to be celebrating 70 years of Beaumaris Theatre, having been involved in the past 20 of those years as a choreographer for 17 productions and previous stints as a Committee Member and Talbot Award judge.
Camilla’s dance training commenced at age 3 with Lynda Mathis School of Dance, where she continued through to obtain her Tap Teacher’s Diploma with Honours, later teaching tap dancing at the Cherill Rowston School of Ballet.
Camilla also performed in various amateur shows, with highlights being playing ‘Zaneeta’ in The Music Man and ‘Annie Oakley’ in Annie Get Your Gun (MLOC).
Qualified with a Masters of Business (Marketing), Camilla has her own marketing consultancy company called LAMI and enjoys eighties music, travel adventures and spending time with her sons George and Mack.
Steve Morris – Santa
In 2003, only his second appearance on the Beaumaris Theatre stage, Steve appeared in Beaumaris Theatre’s 50th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue as Trevor Teddy. Twenty years later, after numerous intervening Beaumaris appearances including roles as a pirate, beaver, gander, judge, postman, colonel, baron, doctor, prison governor and theatre director, he has put on the red suit and whiskers and morphed into Santa.
Behind the scenes, Steve has also been actively involved in the stage management of many other productions including Deathtrap, Blood Brothers, Buddy- the Buddy Holly Story, One For the Pot, Echoes and Anne and Gilbert- the Musical.
So you better watch out, you better not cry,
You better not pout,
I’m telling you why,
Santa Claus is coming to Beaumaris!
Hope you’re on the nice list.
Merry Christmas everyone. Ho. Ho. Ho.
Bernie Kinsella- Mrs Claus
Bernie has been involved with Beaumaris Theatre for a couple of decades in many forms - stage manager, backstage crew, working bees, front of house, committee and on stage.
Whilst performing with other companies such as MLOC, Aspect and Mordialloc Theatre, Bernie always enjoys ‘coming home’ to Beauy.
Recent shows she has been involved in are Jack and the Beanstalk- a Panto as Gertie Goose and The Vicar of Dibley as Chorister, both here at Beaumaris in 2022.
She is enjoying working with such a wonderful group of people many of whom she calls dear friends.
Bernie says thanks to her non-theatre friends who religiously come along to watch and support the Theatre. Love youse.
Mark Stewart - E1- Santa’s Accountant
Mark started his association with Beaumaris Theatre at a party where the Director of Return to Forbidden Planet (Deb Keyt) found out that he played drums. She was searching for a drummer, and, after a short but very persuasive conversation, he accepted the challenge.
It was not too long before he took to the stage in acting roles and has appeared in Cosi, Buddy- the Buddy Holly Story, Bedside Manners and The Day of the Triffids to name a few.
He has also appeared in Beauty and the Beast and South Pacific with Aspect Inc.
However, typecasting raised its ugly head with Mark recently being cast as Grandpa in Little Miss Sunshine.
He was also the drummer, backing vocalist and songwriter with the band Carpe Diem, who made it to the final of the “Emergenza” battle of the bands contest. The band played several gigs in and around Melbourne.
Ellie Martin- E2- “Sweet Treats” Elf
Ellie started her performing life as a dancer, studying Tap, Jazz and Ballet from the age of 3.
Her recent theatre ventures are A Chorus Line, Buddy- the Buddy Holly Story, Anne and Gilbert- the Musical, all with Beaumaris Theatre Inc. Ellie performed in her first straight play in 2022 when she played Stella Smart in The Jewel by the Sea (Black Rock House). She also graduated from a two-year full-time acting course at Acting Performance Studios.
She was assistant choreographer for Freaky Friday, American Idiot and The Wizard of Oz, (Theatrical Inc.) and recently Ellie co-choreographed A Chorus Line (MLOC).
Away from performing, Ellie enjoys cooking (and eating) - and can make a mean spaghetti bolognese and the best sausage rolls ever according to a random lady at a party.
Andrea Bashfield- E3- Santa’s Gift Wrapping Elf
Wow! Andrea played E3 in the original Beaumaris Theatre’s Christmas Panto-Revue 20 years ago. Can you believe it? No? Well she can’t either but she is having a real blast bringing cheeky little E3 back to life again and hopes you enjoy the show.
We wonder if Andrea will be asked to reprise the role again in 20 years!
Kerry Hollier- E4- Santa’s Senior Magical Toy Making Elf
Despite a lifetime love affair with all things theatre, Kerry’s experience on stage only started when she joined D.K Production’s Theatre Masterclass in 2015 and found her happiness niche in community theatre.
Her first foray onto the stage was in Flowers for Algernon (Beaumaris Theatre). Since then Kerry has been fortunate enough to be cast in several productions with companies across Melbourne. This has exposed her to the wonderful variety that exists in community theatre. From high drama to slapstick comedy and even a radio play during the pandemic.
In 2019 she participated in a local re-enactment of the Coroners Court case into the true-life 1950’s murder of 14-year-old Shirley Collins at Mt Martha a fascinating experience.
Backstage Kerry has enjoyed the fun of set builds and wardrobe assistant/changes, FOH rostering, and assistant stage manager. She was recently the Producer of Things I Know to Be True (Frankston Theatre Group).
If it’s anything to do with “theatre” she loves it -well mostly!
Claire Ruberu- E5 – Naughty & Nice List Administrator Elf
Claire's love of theatre began when shoulder pads were all the rage and mixtapes ruled the airwaves. Discovering the thrills of high school and community theatre in the 80s & 90s, she performed in classics like Animal Farm, The Importance of Being Earnest, A Midsummer Night's Dream and The Emperor's New Clothes Panto and thrived under the frenzied creativity of Theatresports.
After a 30-year break, Claire's back to reclaim the joy of her younger years and is so excited to join the cast, bringing a touch of cheeky glamour to the North Pole as E5.
Fiona Williams- Stage Manager & E6 – Santa’s IT Elf
Fiona is an excellent stage manager and has worked as a part of numerous backstage crews at Beaumaris Theatre.
From time to time, she has crept out of the shadows and into the spotlight as Frau Schmidt in The Sound Of Music, party guest in The Great Gatsby, Connie and Anne Welberg in Flowers For Algernon, Johnna in August: Osage County, and a village person in Cinderella- the Pantomime and Jack in the Beanstalk- a Panto.
She is very honoured to be a part of Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue and hopes you enjoy the show
Angus Wilson – E7- Santa’s Apprentice Elf on Work Experience
Angus is making his Beaumaris Theatre debut as E7 although his first role was as John Barrow in The Jewel by the Sea (Black Rock House).
Angus is a student at D.K Productions and is passionate about performance. He was in a school production of The Lorax and is looking forward to many more roles in the future.
Barbara Mendleson- E8 – Keeper & Trainer of Santa’s Reindeer
Barbara comes from a musical family and her love of musical theatre started in 1991. Since then she has performed in over 50 musical and theatre productions with MLOC (Life Member), Beaumaris Theatre, CLOC, PLOS, ASPECT, MOTTS, DLOC, Legends of the Skies, as well as several radio plays.
She enjoys playing comedy/character roles, including Mae Peterson in Bye Bye Birdie, Mabel in The Pajama Game, Gilmer in Godspell, The Housekeeper in Man of La Mancha and Sister Berthe in The Sound of Music.
Barbara was an original cast member of The Jewel by the Sea (Black Rock House), playing the feisty Cook Brogan, a role she has reprised 4 times.
Playing the part of E8, the proud keeper and trainer of the reindeers is a joy. Barbara played this role in the 50th anniversary production. She is delighted to be reprising this role and knows you will all have a wonderful time reflecting on the years gone by with a Christmas twist.
Juliet Charles- Bride Doll/Multi-Role Performer
Juliet played the eccentric Letitia Cropley in The Vicar of Dibley last year. Previously she has portrayed heavy imbibers in Shenanigan’s Wake and Dimboola, all with Beaumaris Theatre. It’s fair to say that she loves character roles!
She has performed with other theatres in plays and musicals, but ‘Beauy’ is home and she’s been involved in over 20 productions here, first appearing in Busybody in 1975 and including Twelfth Night and Une Belle Farce.
Juliet may well be the oldest member of Beaumaris Theatre in this production. She is portraying a tragically abandoned bride-doll in this panto-revue and is very happy to be involved in the theatre’s 70th anniversary celebrations.
Lynda French- Maria Doll/1960s Decade- Sandra
Lynda is an enthusiastic member of the Beaumaris Theatre Inc. Committee and is currently the Occupational Health and Safety Co-ordinator for the theatre. Lynda’s 10-year association with Beaumaris Theatre has seen her take on varied roles, such as front of house, box office, stage manager, production manager/assistant/co-ordinator, property manager and designer, set builder, cast member and Committee Member.
Recent productions include Jack and the Beanstalk- a Panto, the Australian premiere of Anne and Gilbert- the Musical.
Her multiple roles in Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th Anniversary Christmas Panto–Revue have again removed her from her administration and backstage comfort zone and onto the stage, but she’s enjoyed the fun times rehearsing with so many Beaumaris Theatre ‘legends’.
Lynda hopes you enjoy the 70-year trip down memory lane and the North Pole shenanigans. She would like to congratulate the production team, Deb Keyt, Rhonda Vaughan and Camilla Klesman, and commend their hard work, patience and tenacity. Lynda thanks Cheryl Threadgold, for including her in the casting of this memorable event for Beaumaris Theatre Inc.’s 70th Anniversary celebration.
Ross Hand – Trevor Teddy / Multi-role Performer
Ross is delighted to be involved in Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue. He has, luckily, been involved in many shows at Beaumaris Theatre including Jack and the Beanstalk- a Panto; Dreamchild: Alice’s Musical Adventures, The Day of the Triffids, Charlotte’s Web, Dimboola, The Sound of Music, The Vicar of Dibley, The 39 Steps, The Great Gatsby, Sweeney Todd: the Demon Barber of Fleet Street, and August: Osage County on both sides of the curtain.
He has also appeared with other local theatre companies such as Aspect and MLOC.
Ross is happy once again to be involved in this production with many good friends and under the enthusiastic direction of Deb Keyt together with Rhonda and the very patient Camilla. He hopes you enjoy the performance.
Stephen White- Keith
Stephen is delighted to be celebrating a full decade with Beaumaris Theatre since first appearing in Set Build in 2013.
Since then, he has been a regular performer, most recently as Hugo in The Vicar of Dibley and the King in Jack and the Beanstalk-a Panto, and previously in Buddy – the Buddy Holly Story and Pillow Talk, Echoes, Flowers for Algernon, Une Belle Farce and Fawlty Towers.
He has also played leading roles for the Savoy Theatre Company in Iolanthe, The Pirates of Penzance and Patience. UK highlights included playing Bill Sikes in Oliver!, Caiaphas in Jesus Christ Superstar, genie in Aladdin, and Petruchio in The Taming of the Shrew (which he also directed).
Stephen is honoured to have been invited to play the role of Keith and, as a “family member”, to play a part in the birthday celebrations of this wonderful company. Enjoy the show!
Brontee French- Skivvy 1/Multi Role Performer
Brontee has loved dancing & any chance to embrace creativity for as long as she can remember. Her first engagement with Beaumaris Theatre was as a featured dancer in the production of Une Belle Farce, in 2015. In 2020/21 she adored the experience of being the Choreographer for Anne & Gilbert- the Musical with Beaumaris Theatre. Brontee is excited to be getting back on stage with such a delightful cast & crew for Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue and can’t wait for you to join in on the fun too!
Amy Sacco - Skivvy 2/Multi Role Performer
Amy is very excited to be returning to the Beaumaris stage playing the role of Skivvy 2. The last time she performed was as Marty (one of the Pink ladies) in Beaumaris Theatre’s production of Grease in 2016. During her time away from performing she has been directing Primary School musicals. You may have also seen Amy performing in many of the Vocal Foundations showcases. Her favourite one was a cabaret-style show called “Lucky” which was based on the wonderful Britney Spears! Amy performed as a famous pop star called Lucky. Amy is thrilled to be part of the Beaumaris Theatre 70th Anniversary Panto-Revue, working with such a fun and talented cast and crew.
Annalei Warren – Skivvy 3/Multi Role Performer
This will be Annalei’s second production after performing in Legends of the Skies in 2022. She joined the adult acting class with D.K Productions in 2020 and has loved being a part of the Beaumaris Theatre community ever since. Annalei has over 25 years’ experience of Calisthenics, and a childhood filled with all forms of dance including Jazz Ballet and Ballroom dancing. She has enjoyed transferring these skills across to acting in the Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th Anniversary Panto Revue and performing with her husband Stewart.
Kate Squires- Skivvy 4/Multi Role Performer
Kate has spent most of her adult life involved in performing and her theatrical endeavours include Chicago and Rent, she has performed as a professional fire dancer and worked as an entertainer for Disney. For many years, Kate announced the seal, ski and dolphin shows at Sea World, performing alongside her aquatic co-stars. More recently, she has supported the Beaumaris Theatre productions of The Three Musketeers and the Beaumarisical. She is excited to bring the magic of Christmas alive with this beautiful cast and would like to remind Santa that she has been extra good this year.
Tracey Mitchell- Betty-Lou
Tracey is delighted to be part of Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th Anniversary Christmas Panto- Revue. This is the third Pantomime that Tracey has been a part of, having been in Cinderella-The Pantomime in 2017 and then Jack and the Beanstalk-a Panto in 2022. Tracey has loved spending time at Beaumaris Theatre since her children first appeared on the stage there in 2012. She has thoroughly enjoyed roles on stage in Buddy - the Buddy Holly Story or backstage with Anne and Gilbert - the Musical, and in the audience (too many to mention!). She feels privileged to work with this wonderful and talented cast and crew in what is an amazing tribute to Beaumaris Theatre. She knows you will enjoy the show!
Mary Bryant- Betty-Lou’s Mum
This is Mary’s 6th production with Beaumaris Theatre and it feels like coming home. She’s performed in Tell Me That You Love Me Junie Moon, To Kill a Mockingbird, Sweeney Todd: the Demon Barber of Fleet Street,Cinderella- the Pantomime and Jack and the Beanstalk- a Panto. Mary hopes to keep on performing roles suitable for an older person, and may there be many more. Mary would like to thank Deb, Rhonda, Camilla and Cheryl for this wonderful experience.
Cheryllyn de Vries- 1950s Decade - Muriel
Cheryllyn is delighted to be playing the role of Muriel, representing the 1950s Decade in Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue.
Cheryllyn’s most recent role was the portrayal of Caroline Chisholm in The Jewel by the Sea (Black Rock House). Previous roles include village lady Hazel in Jack and the Beanstalk- a Panto (Beaumaris Theatre), Mary Ship the Vicar’s daughter in Inspector Drakes Last Case (Brighton Theatre), and Nurse Gladys Foster in Out Of Order (Mordialloc Theatre).
Cheryllyn’s theatre experience has also included costuming the casts of productions including Seminar (Beaumaris Theatre) and The Jewel by the Sea (Black Rock House).
She is excited to be involved again with the talented and delightful cast and crew that help to make up the Beaumaris Theatre family and says “it is an honour to travel this path with you all”.
Bella Barker- 1970s Decade- Jennifer
Bella is thrilled to be making her Beaumaris Theatre debut in Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue. She has enjoyed watching many shows at Beaumaris Theatre and loved the D.K. Productions Masterclass as well.
Bella’s most recent theatrical roles include was Pip Price in Things I Know To Be True (Peridot Theatre), Things That Go Bump in the Bite (1812 Theatre), Heads or Tails? (Drama King Theatre Company) and Night Must Fall (Peridot Theatre). Other productions Bella has appeared in include Bad Habits (Drama King Theatre Company), The Jewel by the Sea (Black Rock House, written by Cheryl Threadgold and directed by Deb Keyt), Oopsy Daisy (Drama King Theatre Company), 000: The Play (Melbourne Creatives) and Inspector Drake’s Last Case (Brighton Theatre Company).
She hopes you enjoy the show - peace!
Sue Hand- 1980s Decade- Angela
Sue is delighted to once again be in another fabulous production here at Beaumaris Theatre, under the guidance of the wonderful Deb, Rhonda and Camilla.
Sue has been involved in numerous performances at Beaumaris Theatre, both on stage and assisting either backstage or front of house for over 15 years.
Her most memorable performances have been Sister Sofia, in The Sound of Music, Miss Lynch in Grease and various chorus roles in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella and Cinderella- the Pantomime to name a few. Sue has also performed in musicals with Aspect and MLOC.
Sue loves to sing, so when not performing on stage, she loves performing with Pop Choir at various charity events throughout Melbourne.
Sue hopes that you enjoy a trip back in time and history with the fabulous Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue.
Stewart Warren- 1990s Decade- Joshua/Multi-role Performer
Stewart is making his acting debut in Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue.
He joined D.K Productions acting class to build his confidence, meet new people and practise public speaking.
Stewart has enjoyed being a part of the Beaumaris Theatre community and looks forward to performing on stage for the first time alongside his wife, Annalei.
Lorraine Ellis- 2000s Decade- Grandmother/Multi-role Performer
Lorraine’s theatrical career began at the age of seven with the lead part as the Pied Piper in a school play.
Since then she has been involved in many plays and musicals in England, Zimbabwe and Australia playing lead roles, minor roles and helping behind the scenes.
She has been assistant director and director on Children of a Lessor God and co-director of the highly successful I Love You You’re Perfect Now Change.
Lorraine has also been on the creative team for Jack and the Beanstalk- a Panto and Cinderella-the Pantomime at Beaumaris Theatre.
Lorraine has been a member of Beaumaris Theatre since 1998 and after a six-year break from the stage, she is looking forward to treading the boards again with a wonderful cast and crew.
Emma Stewart- 2010s Decade- Sophia
Emma's passion for acting began on the very stage she is performing on tonight wherein she participated in classes with D.K Productions and later played the role of Minnie May in Anne of Green Gables in 2008.
Since then, Emma has studied and graduated from Federation University with a Bachelor of Arts in Acting and has performed roles in Ordinary Australians, Peter Lalor and the Rush for Gold, Mother Courage and Her Children, as the title role, Garden City Weeded, The Season at Sarsaparilla, Arabian Nights, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and The King and I.
She has also explored the world of short films and web series in varied roles across multiple platforms and entered into film festivals, including the lead role in The Girl and the Goldfish, All I Want, Unspoken, Mine, Orange County and Quiet Afternoon Tea.
Emma is very excited to be returning to the stage, after several years away, where her journey began.
Colin Buckley- 2020s Decade- Cedric
Colin’s accidental introduction to acting was when he missed the No.72 Tram and was convinced by a young actress to come down and try out for a show.
By day, Colin enjoys researching and writing about Melbourne history and lunching with his wife. By night, he enjoys playing character roles at Beaumaris, MLOC and Frankston Theatre shows like Dimboola, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Camelot, Big the Musical, The Castle and as an over the top actor in Blackadder.
The role of Cedric is an interesting character (although he gets a bit cranky) with a strong message of redemption and finding happiness.
Colin Prossor- Multi-role Performer
Colin is very excited to be a part of this production, his first with Beaumaris Theatre. His community theatre journey began in 1999 with MLOC Productions Inc. in Brigadoon and since then has performed in many productions with MLOC, Aspect, and Legends of the Skies Theatre.
Along the way, he has performed with several people from Beaumaris Theatre and also has gotten to know many others and was thrilled to be asked to take part in Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue.
He was also honoured to be asked to take a role last year in The Jewel by the Sea (Black Rock House), directed by Debbie Keyt and written by Cheryl Threadgold.
Colin hopes you enjoy tonight’s show as much as he has enjoyed being a part of it.
Karen Shnider- Multi-role Performer
Karen has been involved with theatre for more years than she cares to remember and initially started with straight plays and eventually was hooked into musical theatre.
Karen has been involved with companies around Melbourne but she always loves coming back to her Beaumaris family. Karen was thrilled to be asked to be part of Beaumaris Theatre’s 70th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue following the fantastic memories she had doing Cinderella-the Pantomime and Jack and the Beanstalk-a Panto under the fantastic production trio of Deb, Rhonda and Camilla.
Karen wishes Beaumaris a very happy 70th birthday and may the next 70 years of theatre be filled with fun and laughter. Karen hopes you enjoy the show as much as she has enjoyed being a part of this great cast and bringing to the stage the wonderful script of Cheryl Threadgold.
Jenni Osburn – Costume Designer
Jen joined Beaumaris Theatre in 2007 and has been our costume guru, designer, coordinator, seamstress, beader and sequins aficionado ever since. Her stunning costume credits include A Midsummer Night’s Dream; Charlotte’s Web; Day of the Triffids, ‘night Mother; Anne of Green Gables; Parramatta Girls; Peter Pan; Fawlty Towers, A Streetcar Named Desire; The Sound of Music; I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change (for which she received a Music Theatre Guild of Victoria nomination in 2011); An Evening at Beaumaris Theatre; Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella; To Kill A Mockingbird; Still Life; The Bowmans; Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat; Set Build; Happy Days- A New Musical; The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee; The Great Gatsby; 13- A New Musical; The 39 Steps; The Little Mermaid JR; Une Bell Farce; A Peculiar Position; Grease; Flowers for Algernon; Avenue Q; A Chorus Line; Cinderella- The Pantomime; Death by Fatal Murder; Chicago; SNOOPY!!! OLIVER! Buddy-the Buddy Holly Story, They Came From Mars and Landed Outside the Farndale Avenue Church, Anne & Gilbert- the Musical, Jack & the Beanstalk- a Panto, Puffs and Little Miss Sunshine.
Jen’s creativity and costume genius is legendary and she is also a hard-working member of our committee and a very proud Life Member of Beaumaris Theatre.
Sam Davies- Costume Designer
Sam joined Beaumaris Theatre in 2010 when she helped with costumes for The Sound of Music.
Sam has loved working closely with Jenni Osburn, costuming numerous shows since then as well as being part of the fabulous costume teams at local secondary schools.
Sam was our costume coordinator for Echoes, Pillow Talk, Jack & the Beanstalk- a Panto and The Three Musketeers, earlier this year.
Sewing costumes for theatrical productions is Sam’s happy place.
Fred Pezzimenti- Lighting Designer
Fred has been involved in the theatre scene in Melbourne for over 45 years. After getting the taste for the applause in school productions he became one of the founding members of Panorama Youth Theatre. At Panorama he became the first youth performer to move through the ranks and direct a production for the company. From there he made the natural move up to PLOS where his first appearance was in Brigadoon in1983.
During the next few years, he appeared in two more PLOS productions before majoring in Drama at Victoria College’s – Rusden campus. Fred was also a founding member of ASPECT Inc. while directing their first show, Jesus Christ Superstar.
Over the years Fred has performed and directed with many companies in Melbourne these include Opera Australia, CLOC, MLOC, Aspect Inc., PLOS and Melbourne Opera Company. Some of his directorial roles include Jesus Christ Superstar, CATS, Pippin, Pirates of Penzance, Bye Bye Birdie, High School Musical, The Pajama Game, The Merchant of Venice and Hansel and Gretel, For Beaumaris Fred performed in The Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe and directed their productions of Dreamchild- Alice’s Musical Adventures, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, A Streetcar Named Desire, The Vicar of Dibley, Sweeney Todd- the Demon Barber of Fleet Street, August: Osage County and The Three Musketeers.
Adam Solomon- Sound Designer & Operator
Adam hails from Brisbane and has always been fascinated by the tech and audio area of performance and began by designing and operating sound for school musicals, local theatre productions and live bands.
For over 30 years, Adam has worked in the Music and Film Industries in Australia and the UK.
He is extremely passionate about live sound production and has developed his skills and expertise on the job and he is happy to volunteer his time and energy setting up and operating the audio desk for community events.
He became a fabulous asset to Beaumaris Theatre when he first joined us in 2019 and worked on our productions of Buddy- the Buddy Holly Story, Company and Pillow Talk, Anne & Gilbert - the Musical, Jack and the Beanstalk - A Pantomime, Puffs, The Three Musketeers and Little Miss Sunshine. Adam’s philosophy is the more gear you can plug in and set up the more fun it is.
He joined the Beaumaris Theatre Committee in 2021 and is our technological consultant.
George Kapaklis – Lighting & Sound Operator
George comes from a film background and is passionate about sharing and celebrating movies, whether that be writing for various publications, attending screenings, engaging in the wider Australian cinema culture, or creating them himself.
Recently graduating from Swinburne where he practically specialised in sound design and editing. George developed several skills within those fields and beyond, also building theoretical interests in thinking about sound, comedy, and modes of certain international cinemas. He sought industry experience working for various festivals and distribution companies such as Melbourne International Film Festival and Mindblowing Films, as well as some time at Village Cinemas where he was able to help program some titles at the heritage-listed Rivoli in Camberwell.
He is thrilled to dip his toes into the world of theatre for the first time and be a part of the Beaumaris Theatre tech team.
Zara Solomon- Lighting Operator
This is Zara’s second time being involved at Beaumaris Theatre. In 2022 she appeared in Jack and The Beanstalk- a Panto
She has also performed in the Kilbreda College Productions of High School Musical Jnr (2022) & Legally Blonde (2023).
Zara has 10 years of dance experience in the areas of Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Ballet and Contemporary. She is keen to try something different so has taken up the opportunity as lighting operator for the Beaumaris Theatre 70th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue and hopes you enjoy the show.
Deb Carpenter- Props Coordinator
Deb’s been involved with Beaumaris Theatre for 12 years working behind the scenes on costumes, backstage and props.
Deb’ show credits include The Vicar of Dibley, Happy Days- A New Musical, Sweeney Todd: the Demon Barber of Fleet Street, The 39 Steps, One for the Pot and The Mystery of Irma Vep, (for which she received a VDL nomination for Best Costumes) and The Three Musketeers.
Deb is also a valued member of our Committee.
George Klesman- Props Assistant
George is very grateful for the chance to experience working backstage. He is currently in Year 6 and has studied drama with D.K Productions.
He has previously played Jasper and Dryad in Beaumaris Theatre’s Jack and the Beanstalk- a Panto (2022) and recently played Bruce in Beaumaris Primary School’s Year 6 production of Matilda the Musical Junior.
Founded in 1953, Beaumaris Theatre is a community theatre company based in Melbourne’s Bayside area. We aim to enrich the local community and provide entertainment and creative opportunities for all ages.
This year we are delighted to be celebrating 70 years of Beaumaris Theatre and working with the community to produce theatre experiences for all!
BEAUMARIS THEATRE COMMITTEE
President - Trevor Osburn
Vice President - Dan Bellis
Treasurer - Robyn Morris
Deputy Treasurer - Jenni Osburn
Secretary - Deb Keyt
Marketing Manager - Kristina Doucouliagos
Committee Members- Deb Carpenter, Georgy Charles, Harrison Ewart-Dart, Lynda French, Steve Morris, Jenni Osburn, Adam Solomon and Fiona Williams.
BEAUMARIS THEATRE LIFE MEMBERS
Bill Martin; Angela Martin; Roger North; Esme North; Roy Baldwin; Bea Beckwith; Anne Lowe; Jean Freer; Beth Kelsall; John Rees-Osborne; Nancy Sutch-Taylor; Edda Dawson; Barbara Franks; Annie Laurenson; Jenny Mullholland; Stephen Mulholland; Don Strong; Taffy Strong; Michael Coultas; Graham Eddie; Derek Curd; Janine Chugg; Debbie Keyt; Robyn Morris; Steve Morris; Neil Barnett; Rhonda Vaughan; Vince Vaughan; Danny Forward; Jenni Osburn; Trevor Osburn And Kristina Doucouliagos.
1950s
In 1953, Melbourne High School teacher Eric Meehan, pioneer of the MHS Drama Club and a Victorian school Junior Drama Movement, formed a theatre group in Beaumaris to foster an interest in drama and the arts. The group disbanded and quickly reformed, headed by Marjorie (Forbes) Cameron, Joyce Browne, Freda Warren, Del McDonough and a little later, Midge and Bob Procter, Pat Horne, Diana Coultas, Sheila and Chris Radford and other local enthusiasts.
In 1953, the first plays were presented in private homes including The Fire on the Snow by Douglas Stewart and the melodrama Hiss the Villain by A. R. Taylor and W. Ernest Cossons.
In April 1954, Angela and Bill Martin and Bea and Bob Beckwith joined the group. English immigrants, the Martins missed their homeland theatre, so Bill custom-made a little theatre in the attic of Talbot House, their new home in Cromer Road, Beaumaris. It housed about twenty audience members and had a small stage and dressing room.
A constitution drawn up in early 1954 named the group ‘The Beaumaris Players Club’, with Pani Waters appointed as President. The annual subscription for Associated Members was 5/-. Later in 1954, Marjorie Cameron left to form another local group, The Pointside Players.
Famous London actors Emrys Jones and Margaret Rutherford were among the guests attending special functions held by The Beaumaris Players. Company member Jean Freer recalled Miss Rutherford distinguishing herself by swimming in her cardigan and then retiring for an afternoon nap at Talbot House. Actor John Casson was a guest speaker at a club night held at the Cromer Road theatre.
The Beaumaris Players presented 15 successful productions over five years, with small, intimate audiences. The plays at Talbot House were so popular that seating demands exceeded the attic which accommodated 20 people comfortably.
TAA airline pilot Don Strong worked the lighting and sound for many shows, and years later confided his concern that the floor in the attic might collapse. ‘We used to pack 60 or 70 in there and the support beams weren’t built for that.’
In 1956, a building fund was opened, and the East Beaumaris Advancement League was approached for support. In 1957, Beaumaris Theatre’s current property at 82 Wells Road was built. The Student Group was formed in the same year, under the tutelage of John Bowes.
During this time the Beaumaris Newsletter, a free publication delivered to residents’ letterboxes, included news of plays and auditions presented by the Beaumaris Players as well as show reviews.
The final performance at Talbot House was titled ‘An Evening in the Garden’. An outdoor fundraiser for the new theatre, the cost of admission was ₤1.1.0 per person. Audiences dressed in their finest formal attire and enjoyed dinner, a Noel Coward play, a swimming exhibition, diving in the pool, dancing and refreshments.
In 1958, the Beaumaris Players presented As Long as They’re Happy as their first play in the East Beaumaris Advancement League Hall at 82 Wells Road, directed by Joyce Browne. Melbourne social identities Lillian and Richard Frank were now also performing with the company. In November 1958, Bill Martin and Pani Waters were elected as trustees of the building fund and Alan Warren became President of the club. Thelma Waters was appointed trustee of the building fund, with the idea of the possibility of a Community Centre. Eric Lyon was elected as a delegate to the Beaumaris Community Centre Committee. Ten plays were presented in the new hall during 1958 and 1959.
During the 1950s, the Beaumaris Players raised approximately £2,000 for charities.
1960s
By the early 1960s, the Council had built an extended front part of the theatre. This became the main performance area, and the original hall at the back became known as ‘The Clubrooms’. In 1961, the Beaumaris Players Committee comprised Joyce Browne, Richard Frank, Bill Martin, Chris Radford, Alan Warren, Joan Wilcock and Pixie Allen.
A plaque at the theatre reads, ‘The Centre was formally transferred to the Mordialloc City Council on 1st June 1963.’ Another plaque reads that the hall is named after (Australian aviation hero) Stanley Arthur Hawken, a Councillor representing the Mentone Ward on two occasions between 1956 and 1975, including as Mayor, and who was President of the Mentone RSL for many years. Today, Bayside City Council owns both halls.
The Beaumaris Players offered members a theatrical and social interest. Beaumaris at that time was a popular suburb for new British immigrants, and Midge Procter remembered Beaumaris post-World War Two as an ‘outpost’ where English former city-dwellers missed their visits to the theatre. Midge said the theatre group made ‘Beaumaris for us, a place to live.’ Midge and Bob Procter’s son Chris was active in the Beaumaris Players Club during the 1960s, before moving to become a major member of The 1812 Theatre.
Angela and Bill Martin continued holding functions in the garden of Talbot House. Cheryl (McPhee) Threadgold recalls the informal, friendly atmosphere in 1961 when rehearsing Hiss the Villain, directed by Angela Martin, in The Barn at Talbot House. The Barn was also the venue for Annual General Meetings.
The Beaumaris Players began making their mark in Victorian community theatre and 30 productions were staged during the 1960s.
In 1961, Joyce Browne won ‘The Best Producer Award’ in the Victoria Drama League Finals, and in 1962, Sheila Radford won ‘The Best Producer Award’ in the Regional Festival, coming third in the State finals. Jean Freer, with her first production, was awarded fifth place.
In 1962, Thelma Waters became the first elected female President of the Beaumaris Players, opening her home in Stayner Street to members. Other contributors to the Beaumaris Players at this time were Joan Wilcocks, Olive Lightfoot, Don Cowie, Pixie Allen, Esme and Roger North, Denis and Beth Kelsall, John Bowes, Jean Freer, Pat Horne, Bill Wright, Pat Guthrie, Taffy and Don Strong and Anne Low. Freda Warren’s artistic talents were invaluable for make-up and décor, as were those of her husband, Alan Warren, in set design and club activities.
In 1965, Dinner, Drinks and Drama Evenings were held, and Malcolm Robertson of the Union Theatre ran an Actors’ Workshop in Beaumaris for drama students.
1970s
During the 1970s, the Beaumaris Players continued to thrive, assisted by active members such as Juliet Charles, Dorothy Peden, Nancy Sutch-Taylor, Bob and Lou Rose, Roy Baldwin, John and Jean Rees-Osborne, Joh and Peter Johnson, Ursula and Gordon Johnson, Gillian Savage, Martin Gibbs, Fred Gough, Brian Howlett, Bill Penn, Ray Paxton, Tom and Irene Marsh and Geof and Annie Laurenson. The Gala Night parties were not to be missed and the theatre became a social hub. Audiences were known to adore these special functions. Fred Gough was a long-standing Treasurer, Committee and onstage member.
Director Brian Howlett’s productions are reputed as being particularly memorable. Dennis Kelsall was President for several years and worked in set construction, along with Roger North and Ray Paxton. Bob Rose performed for over 20 years, and his wife Lou regularly volunteered at Front-of-House. Bob and Bea Beckwith ran a student group in the Talbot House Barn.
Geof Laurenson continued his significant contributions to the group into the next decade – on stage, Committee, backstage, set design and building. Geof was instrumental in arranging the hall on lease and revamping/introducing the subscriber system. Geof’s wife Annie joined in 1979, contributing to all facets of production in over 30 shows. Annie remained with the company until the 1990s, returning in 2017 as a performer and director.
Roy Baldwin continued his whole-hearted involvement with the club, and Bill Penn hung almost every door on Beaumaris sets for nearly a decade. Tom Marsh assisted at set-builds and neither he nor his wife Irene missed a show working Front-of-House.
During the 1970s, Beaumaris Players presented a total of 49 productions.
1980s
In the 1980s, the company’s name changed from ‘Beaumaris Players’ to ‘Beaumaris Theatre Incorporated.’ The Gala Nights stopped when interest in home-cooking declined and so did the casseroles! 48 shows were presented at Beaumaris Theatre during this decade.
Company members continued to dedicate years, often decades, of their lives to Beaumaris Theatre. Key members at the time included Glenn Robinson as actor, director and resident cartoonist for many years, and Karen Sheriff, Sonja Patterson, Elaine Honniset, Dorothy and Dick Chadburn, Gillian Savage, actor and writer David Campbell, David Stephens, John Rees-Osborne, Dorothy Chadburn and Barbara Bateman. Chris Clark joined in the mid-80s, operating lights, and working on Committees and Sub-Committees, as elected Vice-President and often the major problem solver.
David Ellis’s photos captured the essence of each play, and Alf Montaro was a Committee Member, set builder and problem solver. Frances and Richard Hutson met when performing together in Arsenic and Old Lace in 1989, later marrying, while Roy Baldwin remained a mainstay of Beaumaris Theatre.
1990s
Almost 50 productions were presented during the 1990s, including the popular end-of-year revues. Dorothy Peden concluded thirty years with Beaumaris Theatre. Brian Howlett and John Rees-Osborne ended their twenty-year associations with the company, and Richard Hutson appeared as The Duke in The Merchant of Venice in 1998, aged 89. Stephen and Jenny Mulholland were major contributors to Beaumaris Theatre during the 1990s, remembered for ‘whatever needed doing, they did it well.’ Stephen Mulholland was the first member to write/perform in a full-length play (They Ran Naked, 1994), and coordinated the annual Revues which became popular annual local events. Edda Dawson’s great work as Ticket Secretary and Barbara Frank’s talented contribution to the company is also well remembered.
In 1997, friendships between Debbie Keyt, Janine Chugg, Robyn and Steve Morris formed during MLOC’s Dimboola would lead to Janine, Robyn and Steve joining Debbie at Beaumaris Theatre. All four would become significant contributors to the company.
2000s
Past President Derek Curd was a key player in encouraging stronger youth involvement and participation, and Graham Eddie also made significant contributions to the theatre.
D. K. Productions, founded in 2001 by Debbie Keyt, has offered drama classes for all ages and skill levels for over 20 years in a fun and supportive learning environment at Beaumaris Theatre. Also in 2001, Committee Member Jeffrey Laws introduced the Footlights Mentoring Programme for Years 9 – 12 students, to help build a younger audience.
Director Debbie Keyt introduced children’s productions to Beaumaris Theatre in 2003 with Bugsy Malone, creating a wonderful tradition of family-friendly productions. Also in 2003, Beaumaris Theatre culminated its 50th anniversary year celebrations by presenting the Beaumaris Theatre 50th Anniversary Christmas Panto-Revue, written and directed by Cheryl Threadgold, with musical direction by Rhonda Vaughan and choreography by Camilla Threadgold.
The annual Talbot Awards were introduced in 2004, named after the group’s first theatre at Talbot House, Cromer Road, Beaumaris and always produced and planned by Debbie Keyt. The Talbot Awards acknowledge special contributions by members each year.
In 2004, actor and director Janine Chugg became company President.
In 2005, the Australian premiere of Anonymous Theatre was presented at Beaumaris Theatre. Devised by a group of actors from Portland, Oregon, USA, Anonymous Theatre actors are unaware of their fellow cast members until opening night, having rehearsed separately one-on-one with the director and stage manager. After opening night, the show continues as a normal theatre season.
Sketches Amore was Beaumaris Theatre’s first foray into Anonymous Theatre, devised and directed by Desiree Munro in 2005, featured 14 actors in a series of six sketches about love, by well-known playwrights. In 2006, Nobody’s Perfect featuring four actors and a dummy, was directed by Ewen Crockett, assisted by Deborah Fabbro. In 2007, Anonymous Theatre co-creator Darius Pierce was invited to Melbourne, to reside with the then-company president Janine Chugg and direct Deathtrap with a cast of five actors. Brian Uniacke directed Bedside Manners as Anonymous Theatre in 2008.
The final Anonymous Theatre production was Dimboola in 2009, directed by Cheryl Threadgold, with a cast of 16 actors, a three-piece band and a concert party of seven, all rehearsed individually.
In 2006, the bio box with technical equipment was moved and installed in the rear of the theatre. Families significantly contributing to Beaumaris Theatre during this decade including Jennifer, David, Alistaire and Adrian Bowler and Rhonda, Vince, Joanne, Nicole and Dan Vaughan. Rhonda still contributes as musical director and accompanist, and Vince worked for many years on sound, lighting and set building. An incredible 54 productions were presented during this decade.
In 2008, Rita and Alan Crispin joined the company and Alan worked on upgrading and rewiring the theatre lighting system, while Rita re-introduced monthly play-reading groups. Wonderful sets, some award-winning, were designed and built in this decade and beyond by Neil Barnett, Ljerka Kelly, Fred Pezzimenti, Pietro Giordano and Chris Churchward, assisted by countless theatre members.
2010s
During this decade, Beaumaris Theatre’s four annual productions included a family show and musical theatre. Malcolm Flitman printed show tickets. In 2010, Beaumaris Theatre hosted a community forum on volunteering. In 2011, seven Beaumaris Theatre members and friends participated in filming scenarios for the Southern Community Mental Health program: Neil Barnett, Wendy McRae, Brian Uniacke, Cheryl Threadgold, Vince Vaughan, Marjorie Winslade, Lyn Laister and Juliet Charles. The films will be viewed by nursing and other students in the future.
Since 2009, Debbie Keyt has organised an annual Australia’s Biggest (& Latest) Morning Tea fundraising concert at Beaumaris Theatre in loving memory of members Barb Stewart and Lee Pezzimenti. Over the years, many thousands of dollars have been donated to the Cancer Council Victoria to support people affected by cancer.
In 2014, successful fundraising, including a concert starring Eddie Perfect, resulted in the installation of retractable audience seating at Beaumaris Theatre. The Osburn family’s contribution to Beaumaris Theatre in this decade and beyond includes Trevor Osburn (President), Jenni Osburn (wardrobe coordinator) and Leah Osburn (director/performer/choreographer). Beaumaris Theatre also hosted community talks on public health topics.
2020s
During the COVID-19 pandemic and periods of lockdown, Beaumaris Theatre remained active online, including inviting members to present monologues and musical numbers for ‘Theatre at Home’ series produced by Kristina Doucouliagos.
The Music Theatre Guild of Victoria announced the prestigious 2022 Edith Harrhy Award for ‘Outstanding Contribution to Musical Theatre’ was awarded to Debbie Keyt of Beaumaris Theatre.
The 2023 Beaumaris Theatre Committee comprises Trevor Osburn (President), Dan Bellis (Vice President) Debbie Keyt (Secretary), Robyn Morris (Treasurer) as well as Adam Solomon, Deb Carpenter, Fiona Williams, Georgy Charles, Harrison Ewart-Dart, Jenni Osburn, Kristina Doucouliagos, Lynda French and Steve Morris. Robyn Morris, Debbie Keyt and Steve Morris have each now served on this committee for over 20 years.
Shows presented during the 70th Anniversary year have been Puffs (directed by Dan Bellis and Kristina Doucouliagos), The Three Musketeers (directed by Fred Pezzimenti), Beaumarisical (celebrating 20 years of musical theatre at Beaumaris Theatre under the artistic direction of Danny Forward) and Little Miss Sunshine (directed and musically directed by Harrison Ewart-Dart).
The final show in 2023 is the Beaumaris Theatre 70th Anniversary Panto-Revue with script and original lyrics by Cheryl Threadgold (who played young Alma in Summer and Smoke 1959), featuring a cast of 20+ performers, directed by Debbie Keyt, with musical director Rhonda Vaughan and choreographer Camilla Klesman.
Many hundreds, if not thousands, of theatre lovers have shared their time, talent and skills in various ways to present theatre shows at Beaumaris Theatre for 70 years.
Beaumaris Theatre continues to play an important role in the fabric of Bayside life, blending the nurturing of new talent with experienced performers. People of all ages and backgrounds are welcome to join the Beaumaris Theatre family.
Theatre For All!
