At about the same time the question of the Society's
name was brought up. In a letter to the Secretary, Margaret Bettenay
believed the existing name was 'rather long and pretentious'
and suggested a number of alternatives including 'Roleystone Theatre
Group'. After general discussion among members at the meeting,
it was decided that the existing title was to be retained. However
by 1974, the use of the long title on programmes ceased, the programme
of the 1973 production if Calamity Jane' being the last to feature
'The Roleystone Choral and Dramatic Society presents. After
that it was to be 'The Roleystone Theatre presents
The production of 'Pirates of Penzance' in 1972 was
an important breakthrough. The Society now felt it had the capacity
and expertise to mount a full length, large scale production which
would be successful both artistically and financially.
If the Society had any doubts, these were dispelled by the enthusiastic
way in which the large audiences responded on each night of its 3 night
season.
has had a long and memorable association with Roleystone Theatre She joined in 1967, became president in 1970 for 2 years and sang in most of the musicals that were presented in the '70s and '80s, charming audiences time and time again with her vivacious vitality and splendid soprano voice She is pictured with Angelo Bona. A strong singing partnership developed between them. They are seen costumed for their appearance in the 1989 Old Time Music Hall
Near the end of 1972 an important institution of the Society was established. for twenty years of dedicated service in the interests of the theatre, Mavis Hart was given the honour of receiving the first life membership to be awarded. Not one to rest on past achievements, Mavis continued to contribute unreservedly to the theatre life she loved so much. By 1974 at least one full length musical was being presented each year, together with less time consuming and money demanding variety concerts and shows written by members with a creative flair. This trend for 'home grown shows' was to become well established later in the decade when two full length pantomimes
The Society's executive committee was able to convince the Council authorities that the if Old Roleystone Hall', (this title came into general use since the new hall in Jarrah Road had been opened by this time), should be developed into a proper theatre whereby it could become the permanent home for the Society's activities. With the influx of funds under the Commonwealth Government's RED scheme in 1975, the Council embarked on an ambitious and extensive programme to upgrade the hall. This meant that all productions and in fact any use of the hall generally, came to a halt.
The last show presented prior to the alterations getting under way was a variety concert curiously named 'Fantasti-Cantics' in which was included a production of 'Beneath the Southern Cross', another example of 'inhouse' scripting.
appropriately attired for their roles in the l989 'Old Time Music Hall' which they directed.
