What comes out of a dinner conversation can be amazing, can’t it?
It was such a discussion in Crows Nest, Sydney, in 2009 between Ruth Tighe, the then President of Loreto Kirribilli Ex-Students Union, Patsy Shannon, former President of the Loreto Normanhurst Association and Sr Janet Palafox ibvm, that led to Ruth and Patsy volunteering to host a function each year to raise funds for the work and values of Mary Ward International.
That was the beginning of more than a decade of theatre parties. Contacts in the entertainment industry “kindly helped us access great seats at a good discount rate,” said Ruth and Patsy. “Of course, if we mentioned ‘it’s for the nuns’, the discount would be greater,” they added.
So, they combined their talents, beginning with Jersey Boys in 2010, where they sold 405 tickets. They went on to great success with Mary Poppins, Come from Away, The Sound of Music, Mamma Mia and more. “We love hosting these musicals,” said Ruth and Patsy, “It is a wonderful way to connect all generations of the Loreto communities around Australia.”
The shows are carefully selected. “We try to choose musicals that suit all ages, are reasonably priced, and embrace our Loreto values of ‘giving back’” . To add value, they try to organise pre-theatre drinks for ticket holders, and if possible, Ruth and Patsy arrange a post-theatre talk by producers, theatre managers and cast.
The biggest challenge? Seating everyone with their friends. “The theatre seating plan does not ‘fit’ the actual numbers for each group of friends booked together, so it is a jigsaw puzzle trying to fit them into seats in a row near each other.” They usually manage it though, but only after “5 hours of long discussions and red biro!”
Funds for Mary Ward International are raised through a margin on each ticket sold, and many participants add a donation. “Most people do donate if they cannot join us on the night of the theatre party”, said Ruth and Patsy.
What a joyful and engaging way to support Mary Ward International’s mission!
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