MAOS

The following is taken from the Summer 2009 edition of ‘NODA National News’ 

They’ve made their mark at Markinch
Seven members of Markinch Amateur Operatic Society, received long-service awards totalling 205 years after the curtain fell on their production of Lionel Bart’s Blitz!
The society’s president, Ian Thomson, and treasurer, Helen Law, both received their 50-year awards having both spent the whole time with the group. Two 30-year awards were presented to Valerie Thomson and Janice Wilkie, and three members of the company, Elaine Barlow, Julie Stirling and Glen McGill, received their 15-year awards.
John Urquhart, regional representative for Fife, made the presentations on stage at Markinch Town Hall, following the final performance of Blitz!

In the picture, left to right, are: Julie Stirling (15 years), Ian Thomson (50 years), John Urquhart, Valerie Thomson (30 years), Elaine Barlow (15 years), Glen McGill (1l5 years),; Helen Law (50 years) and Janice Wilkie (30 years).

Markinch AOS “Blitz!” 23 – 28 March 2009
Director: Neil Hamilton       Musical Director: Peter Robinson        Choreographer: Valda Wicks

It was great to see “Blitz!” making a re-appearance in Fife, and Markinch AOS fielded one of their strongest casts.
The show is dependent on the pivotal role of Mrs Blitztein, and Hilary Elsy commanded the stage in this part as the main focus.  Her confrontations with Alfred Locke (Alan Woolley) were well handled and both characters very much set the tone of the production.  Laura Paterson was most convincing as Carol Blitztein. She handled the blindness very believably.
Paul Stirling impressed as Georgie Locke. Craig Spence, a very worthy winner of the “President’s Award”, excelled as Harry Blitztein.  He handled “Duty Calls” with such enthusiasm! Glen McGill gave a very endearing portrayal of Ernie Nearmiss.  There were lots of lovely cameo performances from other principals and chorus members.  The show was staged imaginatively, with all the sets painted on a black and white theme.  There was much attention to detail in hairstyles, costumes and interesting historical displays Front of House. Overall, a very entertaining evening.