A WIRRAL theatre group's recent production has earned them four nominations for awards promoting amateur theatre.

West Kirby Musical Theatre's nominations for NODA awards follow their performance of Betty Blue Eyes.

The nominations are:

  • Best female character in a musical – Joanne Poston (Mrs Joyce Chilvers)
  • Best ensemble piece – Betty Blue Eyes
  • Best Musical Director – Robert Bowness
  • Best Director – Sharon Henderson

Described as a 'wonderfully entertaining, incredibly funny musical comedy', Betty Blue Eyes was staged at the Gladstone Theatre, Port Sunlight, in November.

It was based on the 1984 Alan Bennett film A Private Function, which starred Michael Palin and Dame Maggie Smith as a Yorkshire couple struggling to make ends meet just after the war.

It is 1947, war has ended but people are still suffering under the burden of food rationing, high unemployment, and the coldest winter for decades.

The only bright spark on the horizon is the impending marriage of Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip. Enter Betty, an adorable pig who is being illegally reared to ensure local dignitaries can celebrate the Royal Wedding with a lavish banquet whilst the local population have to make do with Spam.

Commenting on the award nominations, a spokesperson for the West Kirby Musical Theatre said: "We are beyond delighted! We thought it was a great show -naturally biased, of course – had loads of fun and we received some brilliant feedback.

"It is great to be recognised by NODA – the National Operatic and Dramatic Association which promotes amateur theatre around the UK.

"There is an awards evening in Blackpool Winter Gardens on May 5 – so keep your fingers crossed for us! Thank you again for your part in our success!"

The group's next show Another Night At The Musicals will be staged at Westbourne Hall in West Kirby from April 19-21.

It will feature songs from shows including Chicago, Sunset Boulevard, Mary Poppins, The Pajama Game and many more. 

The Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20 performances will start at 7.30pm. The Sunday, April 21 show starts at 2.30pm.

The group will be supported by Wallasey School of Ballet. There will be teas, coffee and licensed bar.

Tickets £14 available on-line at www.wkmtc.co.uk or by phone from Brian Berry on 07486-920-905.