2650 days ago

Theatre Society celebrates 70 years

Annette Lambly-Robinson Reporter from Whangārei Leader

Next month the Whangarei Repertory Society will celebrate its seventieth anniversary.

In April 1948, a small band of theatre enthusiasts got together at a private residence to form the society. Little would they have ever dreamed their successors would continue to attract sell-out houses some three score years and ten later.

After a series of different make-shift venues in the first 30 years, the society set up permanent residence at 13 Aubrey St in 1978 and, with the addition of a new octagonal auditorium (hence "The Octagon"), new life was breathed into the old villa.

Each year around 2,200 patrons enjoy the shows thanks to an ever-growing band of individuals passionate about the performing arts. They give freely of their time to source, research, direct and produce popular plays.

Topped off with affordable menus and a tipple or two served by dining and bar volunteers, it is a recipe for success that has stood the test of time.

The Society embraces the challenges to keep pace with millennium demands and, continually, rejuvenates itself with new faces, new ideas and new technology in order to future-proof its longevity.

As a non-profit charitable organisation managed by volunteers it relies heavily on donations, grants, membership fees and even bequests. The theatre and land are now freehold but insurance premiums and rates bite hard. And while a heroic treasurer constantly juggles the finances, it's the dedicated band of volunteers and loyal patrons that ensures the shows continue to go on.

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More messages from your neighbours
1 day ago

Poll: Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

🎁 Holiday Gift Chat!

Do you ever regift?
What’s your take on asking for a receipt if a gift doesn’t fit?

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Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?
  • 79.2% Yes! It's better to regift what I don't need
    79.2% Complete
  • 20.8% No. It's the thought and effort that matters
    20.8% Complete
554 votes
30 days ago

Some Choice News!

Kia pai from Sharing the Good Stuff

Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.

Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.

Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?

Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!

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3 days ago

Boxing Day Alert! Grab a Mattress That Feels Out of This World

Marketing Manager from Beds4U - Whangarei

Ever wondered what it’s like to sleep on a mattress designed by NASA? Tempur started in space, and now it’s here to give you next-level comfort right at home!

Imagine a mattress that cradles every curve, reduces pressure, blocks your partner’s tossing and turning, and lasts for years. Side sleeper, back sleeper, or somewhere in between - there’s a Tempur just for you.

Even better? Perfect timing! Our Boxing Day Sale is happening now! It’s the perfect chance to grab your dream mattress and upgrade your sleep before the year ends.

Find your nearest Beds4U store: beds4u.co.nz...
Browse all Boxing Day deals: beds4u.co.nz...

Want to learn more about Tempur mattresses before you buy? Check out our guide here: beds4u.co.nz...

Neighbours, your dream bed is waiting - don’t let another sleepless night pass!

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