AN idea by two members of the Manning Activity Centre to perform a handful of favourite Gilbert and Sullivan songs for members evolved into a full-scale production of The Mikado recently.
Preparations for the show started about 12 months ago.
Centre members took on a range of roles to prepare for the show, according to supervisor Glenn Rogers.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOW“It grew into a full production, incorporating the many talents of our members,” Mr Rogers said.
“Our art group has spent many hours painting a huge backdrop that was based on a scene from the first performance of The Mikado created by Hawes Craven.
The Manning Men’s Shed group built stage sets, including a bridge, two Japanese temples and other props.
And ladies from the craft group made lots of cherry blossoms that decorated the set.
“Costumes were designed and created by three of our talented members and our chorus and soloists met every Friday afternoon to practice their singing,” Mr Rogers said.
Three performances were held on July 2, 3 and 4 in front of sell-out crowds of about 100 Gilbert and Sullivan music lovers.
Centre volunteer Susan Birtwistle said she was chuffed at how well everybody at the centre had gotten involved with staging the production.