A long-running junior theatre group is to fold after 20 years because parents are struggling to pay for their children to attend because of the recession, it was announced today.
The first Shrewsbury performance of Annie Jr in March will mark the end of an era for Game Productions Junior Theatre Group, one of the best known and loved in the county, as it is to close.
Run by Heather Game for the last two decades, members will perform it at the Walker Studio in Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, as its swansong.
Announcing the fold-up of the junior theatre group, Mrs Game said today: “I am very sad that Annie Jr will be the last Game Productions for so many youngsters, some of whom have gone on to enrich their talents both in Shropshire and further afield.
“There are a number of reasons for calling it a day, not least because the credit crunch has hit parents and there are now so many other options open to children.
“At one time we had as many as 55 children performing, but I am afraid commitment is no longer a key word.”
The history of Game Productions Junior Theatre Group goes back to its first production of Tinder Box in the Meole Brace Memorial Hall 20 years ago.
Mrs Game is one of the most experienced directors and actresses in Shropshire. She spent 22 years at the Shrewsbury Amateur Operatic Society before acquiring an equity card for professional acting.
Since leaving the society in 1983, she has been in Coronation Street and appeared with the English Philharmonic Orchestra.
She has since concentrated on her three one-woman musical shows, based on Ivor Novello, Rodgers and Hammerstein and Andrew Lloyd Webber and also directs the junior theatre group and teaches drama, speech and singing.
Mrs Game said: “We plan to go out with a bang with Shrewsbury’s first showing of Annie Jr which has been specially written for juniors and we have some very talented youngsters in the cast.”
Taking the lead role of Annie will be Katie Edw-ards, 10. Daddy Warbucks will be played by Andrew Murray, a well known local amateur performer.
The show will be at Theatre Severn on March 12 and 13, 2010. For tickets call (01743) 281281.
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One Comment
Having seen a lot of “Game Productions” over the years I feel this is a great shame.
Heather Game has given budding actors and actresses a great opportunity to enhance their acting ability via this club and it is a tragedy that it should fold now.
I hope something can be done to help.
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