St Ives young people’s theatre group, Kidz R Us, was presented with a stunning total of 7 Awards at the Cornwall Drama Association Awards Dinner last Saturday (30 October) in Newquay. 

The Cornwall Drama Association supports the continued development of amateur theatre in the county.  The Awards are an annual competition, open to entry by societies throughout Cornwall. 

Kidz R Us received three awards in the Musicals category for: Best Pantomime, Best Set and Best Costumes, and were also joint second in the Best Musical category , for their 2009 pantomime “Robinson Crusoe & the Pirates”.  They also received the Paul Thornton Trophy for Outstanding Costumes in the Festival for “Robinson Crusoe & the Pirates” and ”Beauty & the Beast”.

Kidz also received three special awards: Ashlee Rhoades was one of two recipients of The Roy Crosley Award for an outstanding performance by a young actor aged 18 or under, for his performance as Lumiere in “Beauty & the Beast”.  And Joe Dann, aged 12, received a special award for his performances in Kidz productions, including Fat Sam in “Bugsy Malone” and Nutty Nick in “Robinson Crusoe & the Pirates”.  Kidz R Us also received a special award for their outstanding UV scene in “Robinson Crusoe & the Pirates”. 

Phil Barnett, Chairman of Kidz R Us said “I am absolutely delighted that Kidz have been given these awards and especially that the individual achievement of two of our young performers has been recognised.  The hard work all our youngsters put into their performances is a real credit to them and a tribute to their commitment and it is great for them to receive these awards.”

Tickets for Kidz 2010 panto are now on sale, and it promises to be just as fabulous as their award winning one last year.   “Cinderella”, the most magical panto of them all, guarantees a feast of romance, comedy, song and dance, plus spectacular sets and costumes. Everything you need to make sure your Christmas is showered with fairydust! 

“Cinderella” runs at St Ives Theatre from 20 - 21 and 27 – 29 December at 2pm and 6pm daily.  

To book, phone Kidz R Us 01736 797007  or visit www.kidzrus.net for more information.