The good news for November is that MADCAPS will be back in 2014, with the intriguing theme of ‘A Taste of Kiwi’. The show will include songs old and new, comedy (some of it probably irreverent and politically incorrect), spoofs, a few ad breaks, and a skiffle group. Fred Dagg may even put in an appearance. Put Sunday 1 December between 1 and 4.30pm in your diary as the date for tryouts at the Town Hall.
MADCAPS has been around a long time in our community, with its inception way back in 1982 as part of the Martinborough centennial celebrations. The name, chosen I am told by the Wharekaka residents at the time, stands for Martinborough and Districts Company of Amateur Players.
For some time the company produced a show every year but eventually went into recess because of difficulties in finding a suitable stage director and performers. Twelve years later, in 2001, MADCAPS came alive again and now rolls out the fun and music every second year.
Gill Kerr will be in charge of the 2014 show, and although it will be her first experience producing with MADCAPS, she has written and produced shows for Pirinoa School over the years and has been involved in singing for most of her life.
She is very enthusiastic about the kiwi theme, saying that the scope covers “anything kiwi written and produced, and from old to modern”. The oldest number in the show dates back to the 1930s, right through to songs from the last decade. One of Gill’s criteria in selecting material is that it needs to be “familiar and toe-tapping” and she says that there is a wealth of material to draw on, probably far more than most of us realise.
Although planning is already well underway to shape the production, the next step is to attract performers and others who may not wish to be on stage but who would like to be involved.
Many MADCAPS performers return year after year and form the core of the company, but there is always a need for new talent in all age groups. If you like the idea of being part of a group that enjoys music and acting, with an emphasis on having fun and meeting new people, then MADCAPS could be for you.
As Gill says, “we don’t have stars – some shine but everyone plays their part”. Tegan King, who had her first stage experience with the show in 2012, described MADCAPS as “a great group of people, like a big supportive family”.
If this sounds like your kind of thing, come along to the Town Hall on Sunday 1st December between 1 and 4.30pm and give it a try. You may feel confident enough to consider a solo or key role, or prefer` to be part of the chorus and group pieces. There is also a need for people whose interests lie in costume, lighting, props, and all the vital activities such as setting up the hall, supper, ticket sales and so on. For more information contact Gill on 027 695 0024.
Rachel McCahon
