Amateur theatre lovers celebrated the best in dramatic talent at their annual awards night.
Performers from across the area swapped treading the boards for the red carpet as they gathered at the Dunkenhalgh Hotel for the National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA) North West region’s districts three and 12 awards.
The awards cover societies in NODA’s North West regions for Hyndburn, Blackburn, Rossendale and Clitheroe.
The Oswaldtwistle Players picked up an award on the night, Mary Killian scooped best female lead for her role as Cath in the production of Playing Away.
Warwick Watson, stage manager for Accrington Theatre Group, was honoured for his lifelong contribution to the local theatre scene.
In a post on their Facebook page, the group said: “We were all so proud as Warwick Watson received Noda’s Special Achievement Award. Thank you for all you have done and continue to do for our society over the years. Congratulations Warwick.”
Many of the titles were shared across the areas with two winners, and all the successful nominees will go forward to the North West regional awards in Manchester on Sunday, May 1.
The event, attended by 250 people from 19 societies, was organised by district three and district 12 representatives, David Slater, Luke Taberer and Lloyd Bamber.
Luke said: “It was fantastic to see so many people at this year’s event.
“NODA North West is the only area in the whole country to hold district-level awards and dinners such as these.
“They are a superb way to celebrate the talent within our local area and it allows societies to have a night off from the usual show rehearsals and have a good time.”
David added: “It’s always a real pleasure to be able to celebrate the wealth of talent in East Lancashire in such convivial surroundings and in even more pleasant company.
“I am constantly impressed by the amount of great talent on display throughout the year from every one of our hard-working amateur societies.
“The great benefits which filter out into the wider community from our theatrical endeavours are to numerous to list.”
