Community
7 November, 2025
Dynamic duo receive life membership
CAMPERDOWN Theatre Company (CTC) have named two new life members who have been involved with the company since the mid-1990s at its recent annual general meeting (AGM).
Michael and Jo Saunders were named as life members of the CTC at last week’s AGM in recognition of their service to the theatre and support for the next generation of thespians.
The couple have played many roles both on and offstage, including on the committee, as producers, as cast members, in the band and even as front-of-house staff.
CTC president Toby McKenzie said he was pleased to announce the pair as life members.
“It is a pleasure to acknowledge the longstanding contribution of both Mick and Jo, they are very deserving,” he said.
“Our audiences will remember them both appearing onstage alongside each other in 2019 as King Arthur and the historian/narrator in Monty Python’s Spamalot.
“They have also been fantastic on and offstage in many shows over the years.
“They both epitomise what it takes to keep CTC vibrant and enjoyable and I congratulate and thank them.”
Mr Saunders said he and Mrs Saunders were both “absolutely delighted” with the recognition.
“We’re delighted and a little bit surprised,” he said.
“For the two of us to be recognised, it was particularly special for us.
“When I came here as principal of St Patrick’s Primary School 31 years ago, Jo was the first to get involved,” he said.
“She was in their productions of Peter Pan, 50 Years at the Footlights and Bombshells – she also served as secretary for some time.
“I eventually joined the company and was involved in And the Big Men Fly and Annie.”
Mr Saunders said being a part of the theatre company allowed him to grow his intelligence and artistic side through the various performances, with support from everyone within the CTC.
“We refer to the people with the theatre company as our theatre family – they’re very supportive and encouraging,” he said.
“Our four children all took part in various shows the CTC have put on, and we think that’s put them in good stead to speak and appear in public and be confident.
“I’ll continue to appear on stage for many years to come, and Jo’s always been there – working with the hosting, making cups of tea and doing all those things organisations require.
“You need people on stage, but you also need a lot of people behind the scenes who do the lighting, tech, service and ticketing and costuming.
“It’s a big operation, and Camperdown is blessed to have such a fabulous theatre company which puts on top-quality shows.”
Mrs Saunders shared in her husband’s delight, saying she loved being able to work alongside like-minded people.
“I feel very privileged and very grateful for the wonderful community of people that are the theatre company for the opportunities to have fun and share special moments,” she said.
“We’re also very grateful for the way the theatre company encourages young people to have a go.
“To see new people blossom and grow is quite a privilege.
“Being part of the theatre company and productions is really rewarding for people of any age, and we’re very lucky to have such a great theatre company in Camperdown.”
CTC is now looking towards the Camperdown Carols by Candlelight, set for Friday, December 12 and auditions for the 2026 production of Noises Off which are being held in the coming weeks.
More information can be found at www.camperdowntheatrecompany.com.au/current-show.
Anyone interested in being part of either is encouraged to contact Mr McKenzie on 0409 617 627 or publicityctc@gmail.com.
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