Silence fell as residents of Rynpark, family and friends waited with eager anticipation for the Rynpark Drama Group to take to the stage in the Playhouse Theatre 2025 production they put on between August 26 and 30.

As the hall at Rynpark 1 steadily filled, the 14-strong cast were scurrying backstage applying elaborate make-up, dazzling gems and primping their hair for the annual theatrical performance, directed by Margaret MacDonald.

Founded in 2018, the troupe set out to recruit lovers of the performing arts to live their passion while giving them the platform to channel their creative energy.

“Throughout my children’s school careers I was involved in their stage productions, honing my skills and trying my hand at writing and producing various productions,” said founder of the troupe Dan MacDonald, who, due to health-related issues, is no longer able to perform.

“Wherever the winds of change took me, I first sought out drama troupes. Shortly after moving to Rynpark, I was tinkering in my garden, bored with the daily toil, so I approached management who kindly supported me in launching the drama group.

“I was surprised how many interested individuals signed up and soon we were rehearsing to perform in our first production.”

With cast members aged 63 to 87, the Rynpark Drama Group proudly boasts five original group members, each bringing a unique sparkle to the stage.

This year’s production included 24 items, which made use of popular songs of yore.

“We want to take the audience on an adventure using familiar music to invoke memories of their youth,” said Margaret.

“Mixed with our dance moves and tongue-in-cheek humour, we aim to leave everyone with a spring in their step.”

Getting dressed in his leathers ready to mount a plastic delivery motorcycle in his rendition of Leader of the Pack, Rory Allen, one of only four male cast members, said that being part of the group is exhilarating.

“We work extremely hard but we also have a good time doing what we do,” he said.

“Being part of the group keeps us active, both physically and mentally, and I believe by giving of ourselves we add joy and laughter to the lives of others.”

At only 63 and the ‘baby’ of the group, Louise Beastall said that although some of the items, such as the Can(‘t) Can(‘t) Girls pokes fun at their age, the rib-tickling humour urges the audience to see the lighter side of life and aging.

“Just because we are in our golden years doesn’t mean that we cannot have fun,” she said.

“Grey hair isn’t a licence to be dull and serious. Oldies enjoy a good laugh just as much as our younger counterparts.”

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