A MIXTURE of song, dance, comedy, variety acts and audience participation is taking over Limelight Theatre this June.

Directed by Shelley McGinn, The Glorious Old Time Music Hall is a celebration of British musical theatre – similar to American vaudeville, it started in the 1850s and was popular for the next 100 years.

“I do love this style of entertainment, especially the audience involvement,” McGinn said.

“We hope to encourage the audience to frock up for the full theatrical experience and we will be awarding a prize each night for the best-dressed audience member.

“The program also has words to the songs so everyone can sing along.”

First performing as a three-year-old in England where she won a talent competition, McGinn migrated to Perth in 1970 and honed her acting skills with Stirling Theatre and acting classes at The Playhouse with Aarne Neeme.

She joined Limelight Theatre in 1993 and has worked in various capacities on and off the stage for numerous productions, also directing Charlie Girl, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, Mame, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, On Golden Pond and Fatal Attraction.

Treading the boards has also scored McGinn awards – she was named best actress at the inaugural South West Drama Festival and was recognised in the best ensemble at the 2009 Finley Awards for Limelight Theatre’s production of Nunsense.

“The challenges of directing any theatre production are finding times when all of your cast and crew are available,” she said.

“With this show, convincing everyone involved – especially the mature males of the species – that they can dance, or at least move in time to music, has been a test for everyone.”

The Glorious Old Time Music Hall plays at 8pm June 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17 and 18. Tickets are $32, $28 concession – book on 0499 954 016 between 9am and midday, Monday to Friday. All tickets include a glass of champagne on arrival and a free program.

Limelight Theatre is located on Civic Drive, Wanneroo.