A WOODLEY theatre company whose performers’ ages range from 11 to 21 has won a national award for their inspirational contribution to the pursuit of excellence in theatre.
Starmaker operations director Vicki Widdis said: “It was a big surprise, and everyone in the company is really excited.
“I knew we had been put forward for the award by Kate Naylor, our local NODA (National Operatic and Dramatic Association) representative.
“But I didn’t see our name on the list until I scrolled down to see how other groups had done.
“Only then did I realise we had won a NODA London Flame award.
“It feels wonderful.”
Ms Widdis explained that she and her team worked very hard to get the group up and running after the pandemic made things difficult.
“We started again with just three core members, but were up to 13 by the time we perfomed13 The Musical earlier this year,” she added.
“After that show we felt we really were back in business, and everything is now running much more smoothly.”
The company currently has 16 members, five of whom are new joiners.
“We’ve picked up new interest, “said Ms Widdis.
“And we’ve been able to book our performance slots right up to the start of 2025.
“We were scared to do that before, but now we can, with confidence.”
Star makers is currently preparing for its next production, Be More Chill, which will take place in April next year.
Auditions will be held in November.
The organisation has some vacancies within the committee and would like to hear from people willing to join the group.
“We really need some more adults to help run this charity,” said Ms Widdis.
“In particular we are looking for a company secretary, and someone with marketing experience.
“It’s great to have won this award.
“The committee is delighted and our young people are absolutely buzzing.”
Starmaker presents two musical theatre productions annually, runs classes throughout the year, and offers summer courses for children aged 4 to 18
For more information about the company, and to join the group, visit: www.starmaker.org.uk
