- 30 Jan 2012
WELCOME TO LA MANCHA

The cast and crew had their first get-to-gether on Sunday 29 January with a BBQ, cooked and prepared by the Playbox committee and a chance for everyone to meet and greet.

Obviously we had a wonderful start and I was blown away by the amazing effort some of the cast had put into not only learning their words but also their characterisation.  Needless to say the read through turned into a performance and boy oh boy, this show is going to blow your socks off.  It is extremely funny in some places, that had not really been apparent until everyone was together reading their parts.  It is also very moving in places.  But generally speaking one would have to say this is a play for all ages and is entertaining.

Being the first production into Riverlea for 2012 we have been lucky in that we have been able to source the costumes and put them into the dressings rooms and all the props have been sourced and ready to start practicing with.  Some of them have some adjustments to be made e.g. the helmet may be a bit small, so will have to get creative with that one and some nips and tucks will probably be required (of the costumes).

Thank you team for a wonderful Saturday and look forward to continuing on our journey with all the energy this show is going to require.

The preview night is sold.  If anyone wishes to purchase another night for a large group then they need to get in quickly.  We are very flexible with our hirage if you book the whole night and it can be a good fundraiser.  Ticket box is open at Riverlea or you can buy on line at I-Ticket.

I also owe a vote of thanks to Brian Anderson, he is doing a wonderful job of the FOH, pop down some time and see how he is going.

Yours in theatre,

Lorna



- 30 Jan 2012
HAMILTON PLAYBOX ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING


It is that time of year again.  The Hamilton Playbox Annual General Meeting is to held on Monday the 5th of March 2012 at 6:00pm.  Come along and support your club.  We look forward to seeing you all there.

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- 17 Jan 2012
DAD'S ARMY AUDITIONS UPDATE

Just a quick note that auditions are filling up very quickly and that you will need to get in quick if they want a specific time and day for there audition.

Auditions are being held on the 4th and 5th of February and you can make your audition by contacting the website or Greg (the Director) at: dadsarmy@playbox.org.nz.

For more details see the article below (5th Jan 2012).

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- 9 Jan 2012
DON QUIXOTE UPDATE

What a busy audition weekend we had, auditioned, cast and everyone met each other.

The cast comprises some seasoned actors (some new to Riverlea) and some new actors and several younger members of the Riverlea community.  Playbox continues its efforts to encourage the up and coming actors as well as maintain a high level of performance.

As usual I have tried to keep auditions down to a minimum and depend on the actors doing their homework and learning their lines in their time so that auditions can be directed to the creative aspect and setting the performance.

I have been busy over the Christmas period and most of the props have been gathered together so the cast will be able to become familiar with them early on.

Costumes are underway.  My inspiration for the stage has been met and agreed by the Stage Manager and technical team and am thrilled they have taken my idea and managed to grow it the way I envisaged.  YOU ARE IN FOR A TREAT.

Like I said previously this production is going to incorporate some aspects that you will either love and say, "I like the way that was done", or perhaps say "I hate that idea, what on earth was she thinking of".  It remains to be seen.

The foyer will be decorated with some Spanish themes and the meal will likewise have that theme.  It is not many places you can go now and have a meal for $35.

Once again group bookings are encouraged or even purchasing a night for fundraising.  This can be done through our web page or contact John Drummond (theatre manager) at the theatre.

iTicket have the tickets on their website and also you can purchase from the theatre if you want to take a trip out there and see how things are coming along.

Yours in theatre

Lorna

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- 5 Jan 2012
HAPPY NEW YEAR

From the Hamilton Playbox committee we wish you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Playbox have an exciting year ahead with "Don Quixote of La Mancha" onstage in March and then "Dad's Army" in June running for three weeks.

Also coming up at Riverlea Theatre this year from Musikmakers is "The Wizard of Oz" and "All Shook Up".  The biennial "Gang Show" returns in 2012 as well as the annual Christmas Show.  There is plenty to keep our patrons coming back and to keep our volunteers busy.

If you wish to become involved with the productions this year or with Riverlea Theatre you can send an email to me at playbox@playbox.org.nz and I will direct it to the people who can help you.

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- 5 Jan 2012
DAD'S ARMY AUDITIONS!

Auditions are being held on the 4th and 5th of February and you can make your audition by contacting the website or Greg (the Director) at: dadsarmy@playbox.org.nz.

This production is comprised of three acts which are based upon three popular television episodes written by David Croft and Jimmy Perry.

Greg Hack (director), Dan Blackmore (assistant director) and the Playbox committee are very excited about this production which will round out an amazing trio of plays performed over the last two years starting with ‘Allo Allo’ in 2010, ‘Are you being served’ in 2011, all three of which pay homage to that amazing writer David Croft who passed away last year.

The characters
There is a very large cast required for this show. The cast is not just limited to “senior” gentlemen, we also require younger men for roles such as Pike and U-Boat crewmen. There is also a large contingent of female roles available. So, if you are interested in being part of this production please just audition anyway as we will endeavour to find the right role for you.

The Playbox committee would encourage anyone who is interested in participating in any aspect of the production on stage, front of house or backstage to contact us through our website and we will find a spot for you.  

To book an audition please contact Greg by sending an email to dadsarmy@playbox.org.nz.  If you want to be on the production team you can also contact him at this address.
 

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- 22 Nov 2011
AUDITIONS!

Don Quixote of la Mancha – anytime you want you can make your audition appointment, do so, we will be thrilled to see a good turn out.  Auditions are being held on the 17th and 18th of December and you can make your audition by contacting the website or Lee (the producer) at: donquixote@playbox.org.nz.

This production, although written in three acts, will be performed continuously with an interval midway. You are going to see the stage in a form you may not have seen before and some refreshing different aspects to the production.
Although this play is based on a most serious subject there are many funny, quirky aspects to the script and I think at times you will laugh out loud and others feel so sorry for poor Don Quixote.

The play is taken from the epic of Cervantes "Don Quixote of la Mancha" by Arthur Fauquez, it is then translated from the French by Margaret Leona.  It has been translated in a most sensitive manner and we are grateful to Play Bureau and The Anchorage Press in Kentucky, USA for allowing us to present this inspiring and funny classical play.

Don Quixote is a major role as is Sancho.  Lee (Producer), Lorna (Director) and Playbox committee are feeling quite excited about this production, which is going to have many different aspects to the staging.

The characters :
The following is a guide only.  Do not feel you do not fit the description.  Many times we have auditioned and the people that win the part are nothing like what had been envisaged.  So, if you are interested in being part of this production please just audition anyway as we will endeavour to find the right role for you.

Don Quixote: This can be played by an active elderly gentleman capable of doing a handstand or a younger actor who will be aged. The director Lorna (me) is more than happy to look at all ages for this role.
The Housekeeper: Open 30 onwards.
Nicolas: a barber: Open
Carrasco: a scholar : Probably 30 onwards.
Innkeeper: Probably 30 onwards
Maritorne: The missing front teeth sexy barmaid.
Sancho: Open 20 onwards.
The Archer of St Hermandad: Open
Gines: a galley-slave (later Master Pedro) open
Galley-slaves and shepherds: will also operate the puppets and have dialogue (male and female)
A young man

The other two major players are Don Quixote’s horse Rossinante and Grison, Sancho’s donkey.  No auditions for these, just thought we would let you know that they feature a lot in the production.
 
The Playbox committee would encourage anyway who is interested in participating in any aspect of the production on stage, front of house or backstage to contact us through our website and we will find a spot for you.  

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- 22 Nov 2011
THE RIVERLEA CHRISTMAS SHOW

“Return to the 60’s with Flagons and Foxtrots” a slice of Hamilton in the 60’s with plenty of laughs and the opportunity to dance on stage. 

There will also be a full Christmas buffet with carved ham, roast beef, rolled chicken thighs, baby gourmet potatoes, baby carrots and green peas, seafood platter  and four assorted salads, pavlova, profiterole towers and fruit salad.  A veritable feast of fun and food.

Dates Tuesday to Saturday Dec 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th and Dec 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th.

Doors open at 6.30pm, dinner starts at 7.00pm and the show starts at 8.30pm.

Cost of dinner and show = $65

You can book for this show by following this link to iTicket or you can call the Riverlea Boxoffice on 0800-800-192.

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- 24 Oct 2011
PLAY READING

Playbox will be holding a play reading on Friday the 4th of November at 7pm.  We will be reading one of the plays that is under consideration for the 2013 season of plays.

The play under consideration is "Footrot Flats".  Every knows the books and this NZ classic is a candidate for our 2013 NZ Playwright season.

You can register your interest in reading one of the characters by Friday 28th October to playreading@playbox.org.nz.  Or just come along and listen to this wonderful play.

Click on the image to the right to view the flyer.

Look forward to seeing you all there!

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- 4 Oct 2011
SITUATION VACANT - RIVERLEA THEATRE MANAGER


Riverlea Theatre is home to a performing arts organisation, comprising of three resident groups, Playbox, Musikmakers and Stagecraft Drama School. It is also available for private functions, conferences and events.

The Theatre Manager is responsible for the day to day management of this busy venue and for the overall administration for the venue and for Stagecraft. You will have to liaise with the various groups plus outside users of the theatre and promote the theatre to the wider community. You will be accountable to the Chairperson of Riverlea Theatre board, attend regular meetings and report to board in general.

It is essential that you have good communication skills, competent computer skills and strong people skills. Preferably you will have people management experience and marketing experience. You will also have to have high integrity, be able to show initiative and be flexible in your approach to the job.

Please forward your expression of interest and C.V to enquiries@riverlea.org.nz or phone 07 856-5450 to receive a detailed Position Description.

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- 4 Oct 2011
AUDITIONS AUDITIONS

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- 28 Sep 2011
COMEDY LEGEND DIES

The Playbox Family are saddened to hear the news of the passing of David Croft.  We extend our condolences to the family.

David Croft, the creator of many of Britain's best loved sitcoms and plays has died aged 89.
 
Along with Jimmy Perry, Croft devised and wrote such popular sitcoms as Are You Being Served?, It Ain't Half Hot, Mum and Dad's Army - arguably the most successful British sitcom of all time.
 
Originally aired between 1968 and 1977, it remains one of BBC2's most popular shows even today.
 
He went on to create and script Hi-de-Hi! and 'Allo 'Allo, among others, with Jeremy Lloyd.
 
Croft died in his sleep at home in Portugal today, his family announced on his website.

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- 27 Sep 2011
CLUB NIGHT!  PICTURE THIS!

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- 27 Sep 2011
ACTING AND DIRECTING WORKSHOPS

New Zealand Theatre Federation is holding Acting and Directing Workshops on the 8th and 9th Of October at Shambles Theatre, Rotorua Little Theatre, Amohau Street, Rotorua.

If you are interested in participating, simply download one of the forms below and send it in.

Acting 101 Workshop
Directing 101 Workshop

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- 27 Sep 2011
ARE YOU BEING SERVED? - SHAMBLES  THEATRE

Dear fellow Thespians

ARE YOU FREE?  If so how about dropping in to The Shambles Theatre to see our next production:


The stage version of this iconic BBC comedy series brings to life the well-known characters of Grace Brothers Department Store and the disasters that befall them. 

On SATURDAY 24 NOVEMBER we are offering your members the chance to enjoy an evening’s top quality entertainment at the same price as our own members - $20.  Price to include a complimentary glass of bubbles (on production of your Society’s membership card) and the opportunity to meet the cast after the show and chat to members of other local Theatrical Societies.

Come along as an individual or make a group booking.  Bookings to be made and paid for prior to
Friday 11 November, after which tickets go on sale to the general public.

Ring or email me for further information.   We look forward to meeting you.

Regards,

Val Isherwood
For ROTORUA LITTLE THEATRE
Ph: 07 3628763      email:  nestornv@slingshot.co.nz

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- 27 Sep 2011
BENEFIT NIGHTS
 
Playbox are offering benefit nights for the next years productions of Don Quixote of La Mancha and Dad's Army.

The procedure is that you purchase the whole show for a fixed amount and then you can onsell the tickets at the normal price and the money you make from those sales go to your charity.

A chance for your charity to enjoy a good show, support Playbox and make a nice bit of money for your charity.

Contact us through the website or write and post your interest to:
Playbox
PO Box 24-043
Abels
Hamilton 3253 

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- 14 Aug 2011
GREETINGS TO OUR MEMBERSHIP
 
For those who have not participated in the current production of Elizabeth Coleman's "It's My Party (And I'll Die If I Want To)" is missing out on a terrific production.
 
The cast are doing a great job and the reviews and feedback have been excellent.  One week to go and mid week bookings are a bit slow but weekends are fillng nicely.
 
I have watched the show twice now and certainly one can see images of kin or friends families depicted.  This play is certainly well written and the cast deserve a good audience. Great to see Pat Holloway back on the Riverlea stage after an absence of a few years.
   
You will be excited I am sure with the production list for Playbox next year starting with that second most published and read book "Don Qixote of La Mancha". This is the French translated version of the play.  Lorna Ashton will be directing this play and auditions will be held prior to Christmas so that you can study your roles over the Christmas break.  Lorna has been busy with her notebook, taking it everywhere she goes and making notes for the production.
 
And then we follow with Dad's Army, a large cast will be required, male and female, and lots of chances for well known characters for one to depict.  This will be directed by Greg Hack and Dan Blakemore (great to see past President and one of our Patrons back in the fold).
   
This all takes part in the first half of the year and we will follow in the second half of the year with some one act play competitions and some play readings that you will all be invited to.
   
The year 2013 has been set aside by Playbox as our NZ writers year, so now is the time to forward your ideas to the committee in writing and also if you would be interested in directed one of the selected plays.  More to follow on this.
  
Yours in theatre,
Lorna

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- 9 Aug 2011
IT'S MY PARTY (AND I'LL DIE IF I WANT TO), OPENING NIGHT

On Saturday we had the opening night for It's My Party (And I'll Die If I Want To).  What a fantastic atmosphere.  We are happy to report that we had to put the Full House sign out for this night.

The evening went off without a hitch and only a few minutes late starting which is great given the number of the people to usher into their seats.  The FOH staff did a fantastic job under the guidance of Liz Sheppard.  Thank you so much to all who assisted with the successful evening.  The cast were relishing having a full audience as well and I felt the show ran really smoothly.  I know Lee Tulloch, the director was impressed as she was sitting in the audience watching.

So now it is up to the rest of you to ensure you get your tickets for this wonderful comedy.

Tickets for this show are available now.  You can book now by calling Riverlea Theatre on 0-800-800-192 or from iTicket at www.iticket.co.nz.

Lee Owens
Producer

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- 10 Jul 2011
PLAYS IN 2012

Preparations are well under way for next years productions.  We are still finalising the first show of and we hope to annouce it very soon.  We will keep you posted.

The second production has been decided and Playbox are proud to announce that it will be “Dad's Army” by Jimmy Perry and David Croft.  More details to come (very exciting!).  Any expressions of interest can be directed to dadsarmy@playbox.org.nz.

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- 6 Jul 2011
IT'S MY PARTY (AND I'LL DIE IF I WANT TO)

The cast had their first read through on Sunday 29th May of this funny black comedy by Elizabeth Coleman.  For a lot it was their first sighting of the play and it was good to see their expressions as they realised what their character would be getting up to.  Now we are well into rehearsals and even got scripts down.  The cast are doing brilliantly and I can honestly say I am impressed with how well the cast are developing their characters. 

Our wonderful cast consists of:

Pat Holloway        as Ron Patterson
Julianne Boyle        as his wife Dawn Patterson
Philip Dalziel        as the son Michael Patterson
Nicola Chrisp        as the eldest daughter Debbie Patterson
Emily Beale        as the baby of the family Karen Patterson
Aaron Black        as the undertaker Ted Wilkins

Our benefit night is on Friday 5 August and we are looking for a group that would like to use this is a fundraiser for their organisation.  If you are interested and would like to hear more about the deal we can offer please contact playbox@playbox.org.nz

Best Regards,
Lee Owens
Producer

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- 27 Apr 2011
NORFOLK ISLAND PLAY FESTIVAL, 25 SEPTEMBER TO 2 OCTOBER

Expressions of interest to participate in this year's Norfolk Island Play Festival are now being sought.

Once we have the actors we can then make the final play selection. Please contact Playbox asap if you have an interest in being involved in this not only fun experience but very educational as well.

It costs approximately $1,500 per person to attend which includes all flights, accommodation, insurance, attendance at all plays and functions and also the master classes.

There is plenty of time to try and do some fundraising to cut the cost down to each individual, so please even if you are not interested in participating in this venture you may have some ideas about fundraising, please feedback your ideas.

Playbox is going from strength to strength and the profile with the public is becoming much more focussed and with the emphasise on selecting one play that is very popular and one slightly unknown seems to be working. We are also bringing a lot of new faces to Riverlea with this plan, so that can only be good for theatre in New Zealand.

Looking forward to getting a team together for Norfolk.
Lorna

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- 20 Apr 2011
AUDITIONS FOR OUR NEXT PRODUCTION

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- 20 Apr 2011
A MILLION APOLOGIES

As you can see, many items have suddenly appeared in the news page.  This is because when the webmaster uploaded the updated pages last week, it was to the wrong directory.  Whoops... sorry, I should have checked the page was online.  This is what happens when one is in a hurry to get to the theatre!

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- 14 Apr 2011
PLAYBOX ANNUAL ACCOUNTS

As promised, the annual accounts from the Playbox AGM held in March 2011 are now available for download.  Click on the link below to view.

AGM_2011_Accounts.pdf

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- 14 Apr 2011
MRS SLOCOMBE REPORTS FROM SPAIN

Well my dears, and I am absolutely unanimous in this, Spain was quite an adventure being caught up in a Revolution and the food was certainly different.

The comings and going in the tents left me slightly confused, but certainly not as confused as Mr Humphreys.  Poor boy, I do really need to have a chat with him.

Well, what a busy busy weekend.  We had performances on Friday night a matinee on Saturday a performance on Saturday night and then fitted in an additional show on Sunday.  Unfortunately a bit of a mistake was made about what time the show would start, but our adoring public were very patient and enjoyed a coffee and the ladies all went over to Bendon to check out their sale.

On Saturday to give us a bit of a rest we all stayed at the theatre and some had a snooze and some of us played games.  Katie put on a lovely meal for us which cast and crew thoroughly enjoyed and thank you Playbox for your thoughtfulness in providing that meal for us.

So last week and show is going well, audience seems to be enjoying it and we are once again booked out.

THANK YOU WAIKATO.
From your adoring Mrs Slocombe

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- 6 Apr 2011
FLASH!!! NEWS!

As of the end of business, Wednesday the 6th of April, there were less than 10 seats left.  Due to popular demand, Playbox has added ONE MORE MATINEE PERFORMANCE on Sunday the 10th of April starting at 2pm. 

DO NOT DELAY!  As soon as the performance was opened for bookings, 20 seats were sold.

If you have not booked call 0800-800-192 NOW and reserve your seats.

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- 6 Apr 2011
MRS SLOCOMBE REPORTS FROM GRACE BROS.

Mrs Slocombe.

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- 27 Mar 2011
MRS SLOCOMBE REPORTS FROM THE TRENCHES!

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- 15 Mar 2011
HAMILTON PLAYBOX PRESIDENTS REPORT 2010

7th March 2011

Presented at the Hamilton Playbox AGM

The year of 2010 has, overall, been a success for Playbox.  The committee has been working hard over the past year to keep the profile of Playbox up and bring quality productions to the Riverlea stage.

The first major production of 2010 was the premiere of  “The Merry Wives of Windsor Avenue”, by New Zealand author Geraldine Brophy and directed by Liz Buick.  This play is set in the American Embassy in Wellington.  The Ambassador and his wife decide to entertain guests at a fund-raising dinner with a production of Shakespeare’s 'Merry Wives of Windsor'.  Life begins to imitate art as events at the party begin to mirror the plot of Shakespeare's play, but with a modern twist.

As this play was a premiere, Playbox rolled out the Red Carpet, invited dignitaries and put on the bubbly to celebrate.  Many photos from that night ended up in the Schmuse section of the Waikato Times.  The cast and crew put on a fantastic performance with some of the Shakespearean performances being wonderfully over the top.

Even thought this play was an artistic success and fun to stage... it was not a financial success.

What we had planned next was a season of 'One Act Plays'.  A lot of work was put into refining the rules and conditions and the invitations were sent to other societies and schools and in the Riverlea newsletter.  The initial response was positive and enthusiastic, but when the deadline came and went we only had one entry.  Leading up to the deadline reminders were sent out, but to no avail.  With great disappointment we had to cancel the season of One Act Plays.  In the future the committee resolved to join in with the One Act Play seasons promoted by the New Zealand Theatre Federation.

The solitary entry to the season of one act plays was “The Witches of Prestwick”, which Lorna Ashton  had cast for the Norfolk Island One Act Play Festival.  Playbox supported their entry into the festival by partially funding their travel to Norfolk Island.  This is a great experience for the cast and crew and they learnt much from the competition and other societies that attended.

The second major production was the enormously popular British play “'Allo 'Allo” by Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft and directed by Lorna Ashton.  This play is set in wartime France in the small town of Nouvion.  The cast is composed of The French, The Germans and a couple of inept British with lots of innuendo, double entendres and lots of fun.  The story follows cafe owner Rene Artois as he and his wife struggle to keep for themselves the priceless portrait of the Fallen Madonna with the big boobies by Van Klomp.  While trying to keep this from falling into the hands of the Germans, Rene is also hiding two British airmen and with the help of the French resistance is endeavouring to repatriate them.  Of course nothing ever goes to plan and Rene is forced to think quickly to keep everything on track, at the expense of his dignity and sanity.

Going along with the theme of the play, the Riverlea auditorium was set out in theatre-restaurant style and decorated as the Cafe Rene.  The audience were encouraged to dress as their favourite character and some made quite an effort to get that authentic look.  There was even a replica of Gruber's little tank (with a big gun) sitting in the lounge, courtesy of Brian Anderson.

This show was a great success, both artistically and financially.  Patronage was 70-100% for the first two weeks and the last week was sold out.  In fact we had a waiting list in the last week of the production.  Many thanks must go to then cast and crew for their hard work and dedication in bring this production to the stage.

This is the last time I will be presenting a report as president as I am standing down after three years.  I have enjoyed my time as president of Hamilton Playbox.  I was a bit apprehensive at first as I didn't know if I had what it takes to do the job.  Being a leader does not come naturally to me.  But with the unwavering support and encouragement of the Playbox committee, I have felt confident in doing the job and that Playbox is in a stronger position.  Having a dedicated and passionate group of people to work with has helped immeasurably in the execution of the office of president.

For all the support I have received over that past year I thank Greg, Charlotte, Lorna, Al, Ben, Lee O, Lee T, Liz, Richard and Joy.  To those who have left the committee during the year or are standing down, we will miss you and we are poorer for you leaving.

I wish the 2011 committee all the best for what looks to me to be a bright future ahead.

Thank you.

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- 15 Mar 2011
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
On Monday the 7th of March Playbox held its Annual General Meeting at Riverlea Theatre. There was a good turnout and even a face from past committees.  The Playbox committee for 2011 are:

President: Greg Hack
Secretary: Lee Owens
Treasurer: Lorna Ashton
Committee: Al Williamson, Lee Tulloch, Richard McBride and Mark Perry.
A Vice-President was not elected on the night and will be appointed at a future committee meeting.  Congratulations to those who are on the Playbox committee for 2011.

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- 4 Mar 2011
ARE YOU BEING SERVED? UPDATE!

One month out and things are going well. Act one is practically books down, Act two one week away from books down.  Things are progessing well.  Props are almost ready, stage effects well on their way.

We are being well fed by Arno with scones etc for supper and then Lorna is bringing in some garden produce, apples and grapes at the moment.

We start our Sunday rehearsals this week, so things should really progress quickly from now on.

Two nights have been sold to groups, the last dress rehearsal on 1st April  and the 2nd Thursday and I have heard that several quite big groups are also phoning for seats.  It is an extra charge to have the dinner, but as you all know, well worth it.  Katie of Indulgence Foods does an excellent job.

Check the newspapers and listen to RadioWorks as the advertising is starting and make sure you book early, remember some of you missed out last time.

Looking forward to seeing you all at Riverlea

Mrs Slocombe

p.s.  If we haven't got back to you yet and you wish to help backstage as that is where we really need the help during the run of the show then please pop down to Riverlea on Sunday between 11 and 2pm and you can talk to our people.

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- 20 Feb 2011
HAMILTON PLAYBOX AGM

It is that time again.  The Playbox AGM will be held at the Riverlea Theatre Lounge on Monday the 7th of March at 6pm.  Come along and support your club.  We look forward to seeing you all there.

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20 Feb 2011
SEASON OF ELIZABETH COLEMAN PLAYS

Playbox is proud to announce that our second production will actually be two shows by Australian playwright Elizabeth Coleman. 

First up is "Secret Bridesmaids' Business".
Synopsis:  Mother, the bride to be and the two bridesmaids have set themselves up in a hotel the night before the wedding.  Wedding preparations are reaching their climax with an increasingly panicky mum trying to ensure that everything is perfect.  All is going to plan until the chief bridesmaid comes across potentially disastrous information about the groom.  She must decide whether or not to tell the bride.

The second is "It's My Party (And I'll Die If I Want To)".
Synopsis:  Ron Patterson has 111 minutes to live, so he decides to invite the children around for a bit of quality time.  As he attempts to tie up the loose ends of his life, all the juicy neuroses of this very dysfunctional family come out of the closet.

Auditions for these plays will be held at Riverlea Theatre on 7-8 May 2011.  You can contact the producer at auditions@playbox.org.nz for an audition time.

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2 Feb 2011
HOT PROPERTIES

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- 2 Feb 2011
ARE YOU BEING SERVED?

The fun begins.   Are You Being Served, had their first read together on Sunday at Riverlea Theatre, followed by a BBQ lunch, and because the first reading was so much fun, we did a second one.  Most of the cast have obviously worked on the characters over Christmas break and I (not biased at all) think this is a show that shouldn't be missed. It has all the features required of a comedy, sun, sea and sex, oops, sorry, getting a bit carried away there, that is one of Mrs Slocombe's lines from the play.  Too many gags to describe, but I can tell you that forget about the Octopus that could tell the Soccer World Cup winner and forget about the pig that will be used for the Rugby World Cup, come to Riverlea and see our winking lobster, a sight not to be forgotten quickly.
 
Our benefit night is on 1 April, a most fitting date to start our season, so now we are looking for some really game group that would like to use this is a fundraiser for their organisation.  If you are interested and would like to hear more about the deal we can offer please contact mrs.slocombe@playbox.org.nz.
 
Mrs Slocombe and company will keep you updated as we progress.  By the way, the booking office is open so get in quick this is only a two week season and remember how some of you missed out on seeing Allo Allo because it was a sold out season, we would really hate you to miss this one.  Bookings can be made by calling 0800-800-192 or by emailing boxoffice@riverlea.org.nz.
 
See you soon
Mrs Slocombe

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- 12 Jan 2011
ARE YOU BEING SERVED

Hi folks, just starting to organise things a bit for this show and looking through the props list there are quite a few specialty items required, perhaps someone out there can help us with procuring said items.

1. Chatter teeth - needs several sets of these teeth so that we can try and automate them.
2. A large fake lobster, preferably with the ability to move its claws
3. A large fake octopus, preferably able to move its tentacles.

Please reply direct to a committee member or answer on this website at mrs.slocombe@playbox.org.nz

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- 05 Jan 2011
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Happy New Year and we look forward to your participation in 2011.
 
Are You Being Served has been cast and they will be into rehearsals in February.  Greg Hack will now be directing this show with assistance from Lorna Ashton.  The Producer is Mark Perry and if you have not been contacted to help or wish to help please let one of these people know your particular interest and they will welcome you on board for this production, which is being played at Riverlea Theatre from 2 - 16 April.

If you would like to book a night to assist with your fundraising then please contact us and we will do you a deal.

Any expressions of interest about helping with the production can be directed to mrs.slocombe@playbox.org.nz

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