ENGADINE MUSICAL SOCIETY INC
Engadine Musical Society’s first production was “The Mikado” in 1976. A full listing of past productions can be found here.
Around 1970, a musical group was formed within Boystown by a few interested families. In the winter of 1973, some of the group decided to attempt the formation of a community based musical society in Engadine - “Southern Cross Musical Society” was born.
The newly formed society consisted predominantly of people from Sylvania and the surrounding area so, within 3 weeks of its formation the society was moved to that area.
One year later, the society was renamed “Sutherland Shire Light Opera Company” to accompany the opening of the then-named Sutherland Civic Centre (now called the Entertainment Centre). At that time the rehearsal pianist was Ray Witchard and his wife, Dorothy, was one of the society’s leading sopranos.
In 1975, some of the Engadine members having learned a great deal felt that the original concept had been lost and they decided to again try to establish a musical society based in Engadine. Advertisements were placed in the local papers and Engadine Musical Society was formed.
The first production of “The Mikado” and was staged at Heathcote High School. In 1979, the newly built Engadine Community Centre was opened and the society moved to this venue.
Over the following 35 years Engadine Musical Society has evolved from the initial small family group to the society it is today. We endeavour to present shows of the highest standards whilst maintaining the ideals of the founding members – that this should be a community-based musical theatre group.
We encourage the youth of the area to take part in all productions and have many families who are all involved in some manner, be it on stage or behind the scenes.
Over the years we have presented many of the great musicals and operettas and have branched out to perform more modern works such as “Godspell”, “Jerry’s Girls”, and the great 60’s musical “Leader of the Pack” all at the Engadine Community Centre.
In 2007 Sutherland Shire Council commenced rebuilding the Community Centre, so we commenced performing at nearby theatres, Sutherland Memorial School of Arts and Sutherland Entertainment Centre, including “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” and “West Side Story”.
In 2010 the new Engadine Community Centre opened. Engadine Musical Society debuted, performing Sondheim’s “Into The Woods”.
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