ROSALIND NEW, of Masterton, was in the spotlight at the AGM of the Masterton Theatrical Society when she was made a life member of the society.
Mrs New, the society's longest-serving member, first performed in the ballet as a young girl in the 1952 production of Sally and has been an
active member for the 53 years since then.
"It was purely by chance that I was in the show ? it was the first production for the society since it had resumed after the war and my ballet teacher, Paddy Turner, was the leading lady.
"So, she had some of her pupils dancing in the show."
Mrs New was hooked and after Sally, Mrs New "graduated" to the chorus and on to other roles, becoming a "most enthusiastic and able performer on stage" according to the society's secretary, Melva Denby.
She said there was also Mrs New's tremendous contribution off-stage, this year clocking up 31 years as a committee member, with the past 15 years as vice-president and convener of the production committee.
"Not confining her boundless energies to performing and administration Rosalind has coped magnificently with 33 years as production hair stylist, 15 years as make-up convener, and 25 years as seating and decor manager of theatre restaurant shows," Mrs Denby said.
And the list doesn't end there, with painting scenery, helping with wardrobe, serving on many casting panels and being production secretary for numerous shows also on her theatrical CV.
Mrs Denby said Mrs New is a deserving recipient of a life membership and as one of the society's most valued members is always willing to pitch in and help wherever she can, and to encourage the "new chums" to find their feet, learn the ropes and feel at home.
Mrs New said she's enjoying her work back in wardrobe, and is still a member of the society's executive.
