KAYLENE Smith and Janet Sandford have very different roles to play within the Singleton Amateur Theatrical Society.
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Over the years, Kaylene has been responsible for making hundreds of costumes, whereas Janet has often worn them while performing.
In many productions, the talented performer has also taken on the job of vocal director.
Despite their different areas of expertise, their SATS journeys are quite similar.
Both women became heavily involved with the Singleton musical theatre scene in the late 90s through necessity.
However, they quickly developed a passion for it, and were recently honoured for their commitment to SATS with Life Membership.
“I had always made costumes for my husband Mark but in 1997 when they staged Tarantara the director asked me to fit out the whole cast,” she explains.
Kaylene describes the experience as scary and overwhelming but says “it’s what she likes to do”.
“That particular show was like doing 10 at once because it is actually tells the life story of Gilbert and Sullivan,” Janet added.
The famous playright and composer collaborated to produce 14 comic operas between 1871 and 1896, including the well-known The Pirates of Penzance and The Mikado.
“It was a big, involved and had lots of scene changes.”
The production also happened to be Janet’s first foray into musical theatre.
Being cast in a lead role, due to the fact she was the only soprano available, was unfamiliar territory for the accomplished choral singer.
At first, she was not comfortable being in the spotlight but over the years her confidence has grown.
“This is one of the wonderful aspects of becoming a member of SATS,” she says.
“I am no longer embarrassed to speak to a large group of adults. It really boosts your confidence.
“But the best thing is the fantastic dedicated people you work with and all the laughs along the way.
“Another bonus is consistently meeting new and interesting people with a common aim.”
At present, auditions are now being held for this year’s major production, The Pirates of Penzance.
This means Kaylene will effectively be working two jobs – running her small business during the day then making costumes after dinner.
Ironically, once the cast is announced, inspiration found and the required materials sourced there will not be any room on her kitchen table to eat.
“There is only about this much room on her table when the costumes are being made,” Janet explains, making a small square with her hands.
The process usually begins with Kaylene seeking inspiration by watching other productions.
“We actually went to the Gold Coast on one occasion to see a show,” Janet added.
“From here I have to wait and see who is cast in each role and then source materials,” Kaylene says.
This is often a challenging task as the budget is always modest yet hundreds of pieces need to be made.
The audition process is also where the hard work starts for Janet, who is once again taking on the role of vocal director.
She will have to sit in on proceedings to ensure the aspiring thespians have the necessary vocal dexterity to deliver a professional performance.
A job Janet is well qualified for as she is a trained teacher and, since the age of seven, has been singing in choirs.
“I am happiest singing harmonies in a group,” she confirms.
“Like when we did Les Miserables.
“Being a part of the big chorus was a memorable moment. I can remember the thrill and emotion of it.
“I get pretty excited when harmonies come together, it can be difficult to achieve but it’s worth it.
“I really get tingles down my spine when they sound good.”
The perfectionist demands a high standard from her vocal talent but feels everyone appreciates this when it comes to performance time.
In the meantime, a smaller out-of-season production of Godspell is being staged in February at the All Saints Anglican Church.