Behind the scenes of amateur dramatics in Scotland

Meet the passionate individuals who bring festive performances to life across Scotland.

As the festive season approaches, theatres across Scotland come alive with the vibrant colors and exuberant performances of amateur dramatics. From Inverness to Stonehaven, local actors don extravagant costumes and take on outrageous roles, bringing joy and laughter to audiences. But who are these performers when the curtains close? This article delves into the lives of four amateur dramatics enthusiasts, exploring their passion for theatre and how it intertwines with their everyday professions.

Lisa Senior: From health and safety to the stage

Lisa Senior, 39, is the vice president of The Florians Theatre in Inverness. She joined the group in 2019 after initially being a “theatre mum” for her daughter. Her journey into amateur dramatics began with a production of Grease, which ignited a newfound joy within her. “It was a completely unknown feeling, a sort of different level of joy,” Lisa recalls.

Since then, she has taken on various roles, including the Fairy Godmother in Snow White and a witch in Shrek.

By day, Lisa works as a health and safety professional in the renewables industry. She finds that her theatre experience enhances her professional life, teaching her valuable skills in communication and teamwork. “I could run around like a dafty on stage in panto and deliver the lines or stand in front of 30 technicians and deliver a presentation,” she explains. For Lisa, the thrill of theatre lies in the ability to connect with others and create a shared experience that transports audiences away from their daily lives.

Tim Roberts: The civil servant with a flair for drama

Tim Roberts, 40, has been a member of The Ury Players in Stonehaven for 13 years. His first role was as Herr Flick in ‘Allo ‘Allo, and since then, he has embraced a variety of characters, from kings to ghosts. Tim describes his day job as a civil servant supporting Marine Scotland, which he humorously notes is “fairly routine” compared to the dynamic world of theatre.

“With The Ury Players, we can do anything. It changes year on year,” Tim shares. He enjoys the camaraderie and friendships formed within the group, emphasizing the joy of stepping into different personas with each performance. The thrill of rehearsals and the excitement of putting on a well-received production provide a refreshing escape from his administrative duties.

Anne Graves: A late bloomer in the world of theatre

At 67, Anne Graves recently joined the amateur dramatics scene, wishing she had done so sooner. A retired early years teacher, Anne took up dance lessons alongside her involvement with Starlight Musical Theatre in Inverness. Her first audition was for The Sound of Music, where she humorously volunteered to play a “random old nun.” Anne found the experience exhilarating, and the support from her fellow cast members made her feel at ease.

“I couldn’t get over how natural it felt,” she recalls. The friendships formed during rehearsals and performances have enriched her life, proving that it’s never too late to pursue a passion. Anne encourages others to seize opportunities, stating, “Life is too short. You have to grab it with both hands.”

Trevor Nicol: A veteran of the stage

Trevor Nicol, 61, has dedicated over 40 years to amateur dramatics, serving as an honorary president of The Florians Theatre. His journey began in school with a production of Carmen, and he has since taken on numerous roles, from panto villains to lead characters in serious plays. By day, Trevor manages records at the Highland Archive Centre, but his true passion lies in the theatre.

“Getting on stage gives you a lot of confidence to do other things,” he reflects. Trevor appreciates the diversity of productions offered by amateur groups, allowing him to explore various genres and styles. His commitment to the theatre community has fostered lasting relationships and a sense of belonging, making it a cherished part of his life.

As the curtain rises on this year’s festive productions, the dedication and passion of these amateur dramatics enthusiasts shine brightly. Their stories remind us that theatre is not just about the performances; it’s about the connections, friendships, and joy that come from sharing a love for the arts.