Lauren Mitsak shares the latest news from Stanwell Park Arts Theatre (SPAT).
A priceless comment on our 50th anniversary celebration
Our 50th celebration – featured in November's article – was spectacular and magical and I thought this comment from a past member who was involved with the SPAT choir for many years, deserved a mention. She rang me on the Monday morning after the Saturday night celebrations to tell me what a wonderful time she had catching up with so many old friends. What gave her the greatest pleasure was noting that past and present members, of all ages, were all talking, singing or dancing together and no one was scrolling or texting on their mobile phone. The only thing people were using their phones for was to take photos.
As she said, “People were actively engaged with each other and in today’s world that hardly ever happens.” She told me that this experience had made her "much more optimistic about the future of mankind”. How good is that!
SPAT holds AGM
The SPAT AGM was held on November 4 and Sonia Westwood, our wonderful president for the past 18 months, stepped down to take up the role of treasurer. We are delighted that she remains on the committee as she has been tireless and inspirational in her role as president. She was replaced by the equally wonderful Eric Alexander, who has been a stalwart member for many years and whose talents know no bounds.
The Christmas Pantomime
We are proud and excited to announce that this year’s pantomime, Santa’s Secret, is another SPAT original, written by our very own Sage McAteer, who started out as a child in a SPAT panto and is now a professional actor and dancer.
This show, part of our 50th year celebrations, is steeped in time travel – we revisit some past pantos and Santa himself makes an appearance after a long absence. I’ve also heard whispers that this show has a revolving stage, which is a first for SPAT. Sydney Theatre Company watch out!
This panto is ably directed by Rod Lander, who has also written the music and lyrics to some of the songs, and he is assisted by Eric Alexander, also a talented and experienced director. We are very fortunate to have the skilful and wonderful Catherine Rostrum once again as musical director. With a team like this, we can guarantee a fantastic and memorable show.
Book your tickets early to avoid missing out. Performance dates are:
- Saturday, December 7 at 7:30pm
- Sunday, December 8 at 2:00pm
- Friday, December 13 at 7:30pm
- Saturday, December 14 at 7:30pm
- Sunday, December 15 at 2:00pm
Tickets are $55 for family tickets (2 adults and 3 children), $20 for adults, $15 for concession and SPAT members. Free for children aged 5 and under.
SPAT Choir News
The SPAT Choir, under the direction of Lindy Sharp, has been asked to sing Christmas Carols at both Kennett Home in Stanwell Park and to the residents of Kirrawee Retirement Village on December 22. Lindy has chosen a mix of well known and not so well known beautiful carols as well as some modern classic Christmas songs, which we are currently rehearsing.
If you enjoy singing and socialising with a great group of talented people, come and check us out. We meet every Friday evening at the Stanwell Park CWA Hall at 7pm and are keen to welcome you.
For more information and tickets, visit the SPAT website
