Where do I start with this final report for the 2009 season?

First I will thank the committee and members for their support through this year of transition. It has been a difficult year that saw us lose some valued members. It has been a sad year with the passing of Jean Crozier who put her heart and soul into every performance as a director or an actor, in both of these positions Jean gave so much to others and has left a legacy of fine young actors to carry on to other crossroads in the theatre. She is sadly missed. 

This year has seen some changes and 2010 will also be a productive year with changes to the auditorium and backstage. There has been an influx of new members both on stage and backstage. We have gained some very positive people with the expertise that is needed to update some of the theatres old systems that now need to be renewed. Of course all this takes money and through the excellent book keeping of our treasurer we now can see where we need to tighten our belts to make our theatre a profitable venture.

Funding has been sought for a new photocopier and new backdrops so this is a start to replacing much needed equipment. 

T8 now have a thriving junior theatre and this has also been a transition and 2010 will see a more organised program that will be a lot of fun for the young people and will help with their social and creative skills. The two groups are very keen to learn and some of the senior young members are also working with the younger children as directors and doing a great job.  

On a personal level this has been a year of mixed emotions, taking the position as President under the circumstances was not an easy task. I had big shoes to fill taking over from a President who had been there for many years and was well respected for the work that he had done over the years. I only hope that through this short and some times uneasy term that I have fulfilled the position to the satisfaction of our members. 

Negotiations are still happening re the Eighth Street Precinct Sporting Complex but I have been assured that T8 can rest easy as nothing has changed as far as we are concerned. We do not have a lease from the City as yet and I have enquired about regaining the Vesting of the Crown grant back to T8. It seems it may take some time and discussion with the City fathers so ‘Watch this space’ but we can go ahead with our plans to upgrade our theatre. 

All members who have been involved in the year’s productions, the theatre upgrades, maintenance, FOH, technical crew, advertising, and costumes are to be applauded. The support from all of you for T8 is what keeps our theatre alive and well. 

I am proud to have been President of T8 in 2009 and will continue to be an active member for many more years.

Doreen Howells

President 2009

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