Roger Farr has been surprised with a Music Theatre New Zealand merit award.
Dressed as a pirate for a themed event at an annual conference in Palmerston North, the Variety Theatre Ashburton volunteer was among fellow Variety members when his name was read out.
‘‘I love what I do, it’s so enjoyable. The award come as a big surprise and I was humbled by it,’’ the 57-year-old said.
‘‘There are so many deserving recipients who, without their expertise and support, we wouldn’t have such a strong performing arts sector in our community.’’
Farr has been a life member of Music Theatre New Zealand since 2004. He joins eight others from Variety to have received a merit award over the years. It was Farr’s second; he received one 28 years ago.
For 49 years, Farr has enjoyed involvement in theatre.
He has dedicated hundreds of volunteer hours to Variety and is manager of the Ashburton Event Centre. In 1975 he appeared in his first show, Annie Get Your Gun!
Variety president Jo Hooper said Farr had been instrumental in creating innovative lighting designs that enhanced productions, showcasing his technical skills and artistic vision.
Farr had also brought many productions to life as a director and held a number of roles in the organisation including president, from 1998 to 2000.
The passion for the theatre was a family one. Wife Sally, their children, Roger’s mother Valerie Farr and other family members have been involved in many of the Ashburton Operatic Society, and now Variety Theatre Ashburton, productions.
Along with Farr’s award Variety also got second place at the annual conference for their bill (promotional poster) of Les Miserables.
