“There’s no business, like show business!”
Michelle as Violet in 9 to 5
Chairman
I joined BHMTS at the ripe old age of 17, which was over 30 years ago and was called Burgess Hill Operatic Society in those days! I have had so many wonderful experiences with this society - my life and friendships are so much richer for having this fabulous hobby. There is often a lot of hard work and planning required to get the best from our shows and each one brings its own challenges and some incredible highs! Having met my husband on stage you could say this society has totally changed my life. We always welcome new members at BHMTS so even if you are a little tempted to be part of our group on or off stage, come along and give it a go.
Top Three Shows: Wicked, Book of Mormon, Miss Saigon
Other Hobbies: Zumba, gardening, crochet & travelling the world.
Interesting Fact: I am now a newly qualified Funeral Celebrant.
Debbie as Judy in 9 to 5
Communications
I have been a member of BHMTS since 2007 when my first show with the society was Children of Eden and my first impressions were that as a society they were so welcoming. Numerous years and productions down the line that hasn't changed and I'm so proud of the fact that new members are always welcomed with open arms! This year I made the decision to join the committee to really give something back to a society that allows us all to do what we love with people we love! I was basically reared in a rehearsal room with both parents having been involved in theater my whole life and my sister also a member of the society so I suppose you could say it's in my blood!!
Top Three Shows: Blood Brothers, Billy Elliot, Les Miserables
Other Hobbies: Are there others?! I'm kidding, eating. I like eating!!
Interesting Fact: I used to dance at Disneyland Paris in the parades!
Paul as Jekyll in Jekyll & Hyde
Secretary
I have been performing for BHMTS for over 20 years now, starting off as a Shark in our 2002 production of West Side Story and going on to perform in a wide range of roles from God in Children of Eden to the Devil in Witches of Eastwick! I have been a duck (Honk), a transgender female (Priscilla) and all sorts of roles in between.
I have also done other stuff behind the scenes too, including directing two youth shows and this is my second stint on committee. I absolutely love this amazing society and the fantastic people in it and have met my wife Michelle through BHMTS and made so many wonderful friends over the years.
Kim as Anne Boleyn from Six in Curtain Up
Social media and website
I joined BHMTS as part of the youth group with my first show being Godspell back in 2011 at 17 years old. Since then, I have thoroughly enjoyed being involved in many shows such as Joseph and the Technicolour Dreamcoat, Honk, 9-5 and Priscilla to name a few!
Being part of the committee has really shown the amount of hard work and commitment that goes into each and every show, and it is a massive learning curve!
One of the most endearing things that I have noticed about BHMTS is how welcoming, warm-hearted and happy everybody is, and it really does feel like you become a part of one amazing and musical-orientated family!
Bill as Curtis in Sister Act
Financial Controller
I have been involved in this fantastic Society for over 35 years now. During that time I have been involved in just about every aspect of theatre production. I have directed, played many roles, designed and built sets, served as Chairman and Treasurer and even played in the orchestra. Over the years, I have made many lifelong friends and had an absolute blast! Being part of the BHMTS family is a big part of my life and I recommend it to everyone.
Top Three Shows; Les Miserables, Kinky Boots, Jesus Christ Superstar
Other Hobbies: Golf, travel adventures with Mabel (our VW camper) and food
Interesting Fact: I have conducted at the Albert Hall
Communication
I joined BHMTS in 2018, having helped out with front of house duties for 9 to 5 and Priscilla. I saw the next show would be Sister Act, a film that I loved as a child, and knew I had to be a part of it. I had performed on stage throughout my childhood in ballet performances, but had never been involved with musical theatre shows, despite a love of singing and a very keen interest in seeing shows in the west end.
Joining BHMTS has been one of the best decisions I have made. Being surrounded by this wonderful group of people has changed my life for the better, and the friendships (and romantic relationship!) that have been forged are incredibly meaningful to me.
Becoming part of the committee has really helped me to see the hard work and dedication that go into putting on shows, and I am honoured to be a part of it.
Social media and communications