Diane Crease
Diane Crease’s name is synonymous with Bankstown Theatre Company!
Many community theatre groups can no longer boast the longevity of commitment from members as performers and production personnel seem more transient these days.
Diane commenced her association with BTC in 1965 for their production of The Maid of the Mountains. Encouraged by her parents to “join a musical society” so she could meet people and get out of the house!” The rest as they say is history! She quickly moved up through the ranks of the chorus to start playing roles. Usually “character” roles that belied her true age.
Her presence on stage is magnetic whether she is regaling us all to celebrate “Today” (Mame), popping people into pies (Sweeney Todd) wrangling mischievous orphans (Annie), trying to conquer New York as a fledgling wrier (Wonderful Town) or as an Amazonian warrior (By Jupiter) to name a few. She has appeared in over 30 productions for BTC.
Equally at home directing, her no nonsense approach always ensures a focussed and polished production. She has directed over 20 productions for BTC.
A couple of professional sojourns in the 1975 production of ANNIE and again in 1985 with BEAUTY AND THE BEAST did not diminish her passion for BTC always returning to resume committee and off-stage responsibilities.
Her theatrical reach has not always been confined to BTC. She has appeared with and directed for other companies including; Strathfield Light Opera, Rockdale Musical Society and Miranda Musical Society.
She has worked tirelessly on the BTC committee for over 40 years, whether as Secretary, Publicity Manager or Treasurer. She is ever present at every production either, ushering, selling programs, or just spreading “bon homie” her winning smile beaming across the foyer.
I am proud to count Diane amongst my friends and I believe her contribution to Community Theatre in Sydney deserves recognition in ACT Hall of Fame.
Christopher Hamilton
(Pictured below : Bankstown mark their 75th anniversary.)
