I know that you, our audiences, will be as disappointed as the members of the Society that this production has had to be moved yet again from the excellent facilities of the Ritz.  One thing is certain however, the move to a smaller stage will not mean a fall in the Society’s high standards.  The 4 shows staged at the Boys’ school 1979 to 1982 are proof of this.  The Society is indeed fortunate that such excellent facilities are available at Chichele School.  On behalf of the Society and you, our ‘customers’ I would thank most sincerely the Education Authority and particularly the Head teacher and Staff including the caretakers for allowing the school to be used.  Whilst it is intended that school buildings should be available to public organisations – this should not be taken for granted.  I know from personal experience that ‘lettings’ of this kind do cause some upheaval in the smooth running and organisation of the school, resulting in much forethought, planning and extra work.  One must remember that it is not just a hall and stage being used – dressing rooms for a large cast are required, as are storage areas for costumes, props and scenery etc.  Thank you Chichele.
Finally, thank you, our audiences, for your support – please maintain it – it is needed now more than ever.  Production costs are still very high, even in a smaller venue, and live theatre must not be lost to Rushden.

Bert Catlin
President

Our last year’s show ‘Half A Sixpence’ was a great success, unfortunately not financially, but however it was enjoyed by many people.  Little did we realise that on our final curtain, it would be the last performance at ‘The Ritz’.
We have come a long way since the curtain went up 43 years ago on the first night of ‘Blossom Time’, and it is indeed very sad, that not only members of this Society, but you the public have seen the end of an era.
For your enjoyment this year we present ‘Fiddler on the Roof’.  The enthusiasm and hard work of all those connected with the show under the very professional director Mr. David Turner, will, I hope, give you a happy and memorable evening.
Thanks to my committee and all the members both on or off the stage, however small their task.  My thanks also to our Vice Presidents for their patronage and financial support.
If anyone is interested in becoming a Vice President, please contact me at 273, Wellingborough Road, Rushden or telephone me on Rushden 53139.

Chris Carter
Chairman

The Committee and members of the Society wish to offer their sincere thanks to the following whose assistance and co-operation have made this production possible.

The President and Vice-Presidents for their continued support.
The Octopus Distribution Services Ltd., Rushden W. M. Club, The Rose & Crown, Rushden, Hensman Hall, Higham Ferrers and Adult School, Higham Ferrers for rehearsal facilities.
The Headmasters of Chichele School, South End Junior School and their caretakers.
Programme written and compiled by Mary Boyfield.
Peter Dawes Printers, Kettering, and Typestart Print Origination for their great assistance in producing this programme.
Photography by Doug Millhouse, Tel: Kettering 722064 for publicity photographs.
All those who have allowed us to display advertising material.
The Traders who have taken advertising space or donated pages in this programme.
Bernard A Potters (Insurances) Ltd, and Billingtons, Higham Ferrers for publicity displays.
Alpha Mu Products for use of public address equipment.
The Stewarts, Programme, Prize Draw ticket and Refreshment sellers.
John Whittington, Rushden, for Box Office facilities and those who have helped.
The Nursing Sisters and St John Ambulance for attendance at Chichele School.
All parties supporting us from various organisations.
R.A.T.S. for use of scenery workshop and props.
Ailey’s Transport for return of scenery.