A THEATRE group will celebrate 40 years of drama and fun both on and off stage this weekend.

Members past and present of Victoria Hall ADS are gearing up for a reunion party at The Roundhouse, Kenton Close, Halliwell, on Saturday.

Anne Dixon said: "The Victoria Hall ADS has a long tradition of producing quality, family entertainment, right in the heart of Bolton town centre.

"For the full 40 years they have put on a traditional family-orientated pantomime each year, enjoyed by thousands of cubs and brownies and families.

"Indeed our panto has introduced many youngsters to the wonder of live theatre, helped, no doubt, by the treat of a pasty at the interval.

"In the early years, the drama group enjoyed putting on variety shows and this led to the production of plays, both comic and tragic, as well as them taking an active role in leading worship at the Victoria Hall Methodist Church.

"Over the years, many people have tread the boards and helped out behind the scenes.

"Some have stayed on, developing a wealth of experience to pass on the newer members and to the public who come to watch our productions.

"Others have moved on and it would be good to meet up with some of them again, reminisce and thank them for their involvement in our drama group."

Anne, the group's publicity officer, added there have been countless memorable incidents over the years including a tap dancing wolf who danced off the stage and a particularly brave cast member who broke his foot doing a Gay Gordons céilidh-style dance but carried on dancing and singing to the end, proving the old adage — the show must go on.

Any past members, people who have appeared in one of the productions, helped backstage or front of house, served refreshments or sold tickets are all welcome to attend.

Phone Barry on 01204 845 493.