Reporter joins BATS for centenary show

Reporter Samantha Robinson, centre, with Batley Amateur Thespian Society.(D522A336)

This year, Batley Amateur Thespian Society is celebrating 100 years of dazzling audiences with song, dance and drama.

So imagine my excitement when I was invited to take part in their upcoming show and join in with the festivities!

And having watched my colleagues embark on a range of challenges, my participation in the show seemed the perfect way to do my bit for the Reporter Series Fund too.

The Magic of Musicals will take to the stage at Batley Town Hall from Wednesday November 27 to Saturday November 30 at 7.15pm.

And if the action-packed rehearsals are anything to go by, it’s going to be a cracking show.

Celebrating the best of the West End and Broadway, The Magic of Musicals showcases top tunes from popular shows including Chicago, Oliver, Moulin Rouge, and Blood Brothers.

There’s even a few Disney numbers and a nostalgic Jersey Boys tribute.

Rehearsals began in July, and I’ve been spending the last two months learning lyrics, memorising dance routines and trying to remember which way to go when the director shouts ‘downstage!’.

I’ve been chucked in at the deep end but I must admit, I’m enjoying every musical minute.

The talented cast have given me a warm welcome and as opening night approaches it’s wonderful to see the show coming together.

And hopefully my time on the stage will help to raise some money for the four Reporter Series Fund Charities – Asthma UK, Kirkwood Hospice, the Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice and One Community.

There will be donation buckets available at each of the four show nights – and hopefully this reporter will be able to hold her own with the Thespians. Tickets are now on sale and cost £12 (£10 concessions) from 07792 634360.