1994, History and other events

The less popular and dated G&S show, Patience, offered a challenge and we took it up. With the help of Ruth Richter it became a comment on new ideas of masculinity and New Age cults, with SNAGs, pyramids and the rest. Haydn's popular oratorio The Creation completed the year, with the Eltham Orchestra again. We donated $7000 to charity, $40,900 so far.

In the new year the Dance and Drama classes resumed after two years, under the leadership of Ruth Richter and Lisa Stampf. Jane Fishburn also took over some drama classes when Ruth was ill. Musicianship Classes were also offered, run by Nancy and Beryl, and at the end of the course the advanced class presented a recital to demonstrate what they had learnt.

Some members of the Diamond Valley Singers were involved in the inaugural production of The Marriage of Figaro by Ringwood Opera. Founder Ingrid Schipperheyn was directing and singing the role of Susanna, Ken Neate played Basilio, Chris Barling played Bartolo and Graham Ford was stage manager. It is encouraging to see new groups venturing into the theatre arena, providing opportunities for young singers to gain experience.

Others were looking further afield, with Lisa Stampf winning the lead role in Nova Theatre's Guys and Dolls. Further down the track the company were searching for a baritone to play Lisa's grandfather, so Graham Ford, with his vast experience in this capacity, with five little ankle-biters, was an obvious choice for the role. Martin King was cast as a policeman.

The next function on the social calendar was a "Quiz Night", held at Eltham Uniting Church with Michael Knuckey as a most entertaining compere. On arrival singers and orchestra members were allocated tables to ensure an even mix of both at each table. This was a most enjoyable evening and had obviously been very carefully planned - mainly by Dianne and Gary Richter.

Graham had maintained his interest in Ringwood Opera, now rechristened Eastern Metropolitan Opera, and been appointed director for their September production of Mozart's The Magic Flute - in German. Performances were to be at Warrandyte High School, which has really proved its worth as a venue, with Ian Lowe as Musical Director in charge of a specially formed orchestra.

A group of faithfuls trotted up to the Bendigo Competitions on the Queen's Birthday weekend. Michael Try gained second place in the ballad, John Tacey second in the Musical Comedy, and Judith O'Shea third in the Oratorio.

Another venture for some of the singers was participation in the "People's Messiah" at Southgate Lutheran Church, where Judith O'Shea, David Cox and Graham Ford were three of the soloists. This was part of the "Awakening 94" celebrations.