Merit award made to Talos theatre stalwart

Cedric Taylor receives his award from Talos president Max Ward. Photo/Supplied

Cedric Taylor has received a prestigious award recognising his contribution to theatre.

At a recent Waikato/BOP Musical Theatre New Zealand zone meeting, Mr Taylor received a coveted Musical Theatre Merit Award for Service to Musical Theatre.

Last year, Mr Taylor's wife Coral was similarly honoured and both are life members of Talos.

It was his wife's love of and involvement in theatre that was the catalyst for Mr Taylor to also become involved and use his talents.

At the award ceremony held at The Woolshed Theatre, Mr Taylor spoke of his pride and passion for theatre and Te Awamutu.

Mr Taylor started building stage sets for the Te Awamutu Little Theatre in the 1970s.

A builder by trade, he used his ingenuity and wit to create the perfect set for any show.

Audience numbers were growing and musicals were becoming popular, so the Te Awamutu Light Operatic Society (Talos) was formed in 1975.

Talos shows were held in the Te Awamutu College hall and the St Patrick's Hall on Rewi St.

Mr Taylor built sets, ran the bar and organised catering.

However, he dreamed of having a purpose-built theatre in Te Awamutu.

His dream turned into a reality in 1986 when the Woolshed Theatre was built.

Mr Taylor has been a committee member, president, bar manager and lighting technician.

His value to Talos was recognised several years ago when he was granted life membership.

Mr Taylor intends to stay involved in set building and is honorary theatre manager of the Woolshed Theatre.

Talos vice president Noldy Rust says Mr Taylor is the man to go to when a set is needed.

He says the award is a fitting tribute to a man who has put his heart and soul into theatre in Te Awamutu for more than 50 years.