4000 'razzle-dazzled'

The Showbiz Queenstown cast and crew of Chicago after their successful season this month. Photo...
The Showbiz Queenstown cast and crew of Chicago after their successful season this month. Photo by Matt Wong Photography.
More than 4000 people have been ''razzle-dazzled'' by the Showbiz Queenstown production of Chicago and all shows sold out, except the matinee, which still attracted more than 300.

Showbiz president Marty Newell told the assembled cast and crew after the final show on Saturday night he believed Chicago was one of the best Showbiz Queenstown productions so far.

It was the most professional production by the ''amateur society'' in his 19 years with the company, he said.

Chicago was a hit with the audience and enjoyed the most preferential sales at nearly 800.

''It will take a few weeks before we know the financial success, but I am positive that we will end up on the right side of the ledger,'' Mr Newell said.

''The great thing being that any money the show does make is put straight back into the society for future shows.''

After thanks and tributes to all on stage and backstage and everyone else who made Chicago happen, awards were presented.

The Showbiz Queenstown Committee Award, chosen by the committee, was given to Matt Wong for his many years of service as a sponsor, committee member and photographer.

The Hoofer's Award for the cast member who made the most personal growth as a dancer, or who has contributed the most as a dancer, was chosen and presented by choreographer Anna Stuart to Zelia Horrell.

The President's Pick, for the individual who made a major contribution to the show, was given by Mr Newell to orchestra pianist James Stephenson.

The Showbiz Queenstown Douglas Kamo Scholarship, of $500 given to advance the musical theatre career of a Showbiz member, was presented by Mr Newell to Wakatipu High School pupil Matt Bradford.

The Kenny Maurice Memorial Award, presented to the cast member who made the most positive contribution to the overall good spirit of the show, was voted for by the cast. It was presented by Mr Newell and Fae Robertson to Samuel Farr.

The Scooter Reid Memorial Crew Excellence Award, given to the crew member who made a major contribution to the show, with technical know-how, good spirit, commitment and attitude taken into consideration, was chosen and presented by director Bryan Aitken to Mr Newell.

The Alan Cheak Memorial Trophy, presented to the cast member who displayed the most personal development during rehearsals, was selected and presented by Mr Aitken to co-stars Nicole McLean and Fiona Stephenson.

Mr Aitken returns to direct the next Showbiz Queenstown production, the farcical musical La Cage aux Folles, which runs from September 1 to 7.

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