Awards Presented at Newport Playgoers AGM

Rachel Fenwick was named Newport’s best actor when she was presented with the prestigious Webley Award at Newport Playgoers Society’s AGM.

Rachel Fenwick was presented with her award by
Playgoers President Richard Dymond
(PHOTO: PHIL MANSELL)

Rachel as Eliza Doolittle
(PHOTO: PHIL MANSELL)

Rachel won the coveted award for her virtuosity in playing Eliza Doolittle in ‘Pygmalion’ –  and achieving the magical transformation from cockney flower seller to well-spoken lady.

She was also commended for playing the part of Alice Tinker in ‘The Vicar of Dibley’ earlier in the season for which she won Best Supporting Actress at the recent Gwent Drama League Awards.

“I am delighted and honoured to have been presented with this award, and would like to thank Newport Playgoers for giving me the opportunity and support to play such a variety of roles,” she said.

Rachel – who has also had major roles in the Moliere comedy ‘The Hypochondriac’  and Ira Levin’s chilling ‘Veronica’s Room’ – is about to start a one year Diploma in Professional Acting course at the Drama Studio London.

Becky Griffiths is presented with the Jonathan Conick Award
by NPS President Richard Dymond
(PHOTO: PHIL MANSELL)

Another proud winner was Becky Griffiths of Playgoers New Generation who received the Jonathan Conick Award which commemorates a much-loved member of Playgoers who lost his battle with cancer, aged just 29. It is given to youngsters who have been active not just in acting but in all areas of theatre.

“I feel really honoured to become the third recipient of this coveted award,” said 18-year-old Becky. “It’s particularly nice becomes it comes just as I’m about to go to university to study for a degree in performing arts.”

Becky has been involved in several productions not only acting on stage but also working on sound, set-building, props and stage managing. She has also been an enthusiastic volunteer front of house working in the Dolman box office.

Rachel Fenwick won Best Supporting Actress and Nathan Hodge's
production of  'Killer Joe' was names Best Play
(PHOTO: PHIL MANSELL)

Earlier this week Playgoers scoped a number of awards at the Gwent Drama League evening including Best Play for ‘Killer Joe’ directed by Nathan Hodge.

Playgoers are currently gearing up for their 91^st season which opens with ‘According to Claudia’ by local writer Phil Mansell. Other plays in the season will mark the centenary of the First World War with ‘Blackadder Goes Forth’, ‘The Accrington Pals’ and ‘For Services Rendered’. For full details and to book tickets either phone 01633 263670 or visit www.dolmantheatre.co.uk.