Overton Dramatic Society’s Kate Llewellyn has called Overton home since 2007, during which time she’s been lucky to “have met so many wonderful people”.
People make Overton “such a supportive place to live, with so many individuals volunteering their time to ensure there are lots of activities and events going on, as well as working hard to make it a sustainable and pleasant place to live, work and play.” For her ‘play’ Kate takes to the stage as a trusty member of the Overton Dramatic Society (ODS).
The credits that Kate has chalked up since she joined in 2008 are typical of the variety and creativity that the ODS are all about. From Cinderella Interstellar Cabaret, Alice in Wonderland, The Importance of Being Earnest, as well as Guys & Dolls and most recently “playing the sweet and innocent (and a little cheesed off!) Red Riding Hood” in the November production of The Alternative Pantomime.
CommunityAd discovered as well as performing Kate is integral to the ODS social media presence and publicity work, which includes answering a few questions from us.
Just how good does it feel to be able to put on productions again after such a long lockdown-induced absence?
2020 was the first time we had not put on a show in 40 years. It was so sad that the lockdown fell in our special 40th year. We usually put on two productions a year, so it left a real gap in the lives of our members and the local community. It felt really wonderful to be able to get back on stage, although also full of anxiety as numbers began to rise and there was talk of more restrictions. It’s been a very tough time navigating all of this… but we really hope the future is bright… and full of spotlights!
We have plans for both a spring musical and a winter pantomime this year.
Performance and theatre have so many benefits to an individual’s wellbeing, have you seen this or experienced it yourself?
Absolutely! There is nothing like the feeling after a great rehearsal, let alone the adrenaline rush from the applause at the end of the show. Any production involves a whole team. You all have to be there for each other. On stage and off. Front of stage and backstage.
Singing and acting offer a real escape for me – you can’t be worrying about work or the kids whilst rehearsing a scene, singing a song or performing.
If any readers are perusing this article and thinking to themselves “I’d like to try to be a thespian this year” what would you say to them?
Go for it! It’s great for confidence. I have seen many new members overcome their nerves and truly bloom into talented performers. New members are welcome… no matter their experience.
One of the best things about ODS, that I often tell people, is how you get to meet lots of different people, all different ages and backgrounds. Many of the people I first met at ODS when I joined have become my best friends. It’s a great way to get to know people in your local area.
Why is it so important for the local community to support theatre productions and local theatre groups now more than ever?
Putting on a production is expensive – licences, hire, lights, costumes and more. Ticket sales are really important, especially to smaller societies.
It is also so much better performing to full houses than quiet auditoriums. Theatres – big and small – have had it incredibly tough for 2 years now, so they need our support more than ever. Plus, in most cases, you are guaranteed a fantastic night out. Most local theatre groups choose fun, entertaining and funny shows. Often, you can’t help but get totally immersed in the show and by the end you’ll be awash with serotonin. So, it’s beneficial to all. Win-win!
‘[title of show]’ is the brilliant quirky and inventive next production that will be rocking up on an Overton stage. Kate tells us “The Broadway musical, [title of show] is a brilliantly clever production all about two young men writing a musical yet to be named… hence the title” and promises the songs are catchy. The production will run from Tuesday 24th to Saturday 28th May 2022. So now is the time to get involved.