Wordsley actor receives medal

3:35pm Friday 4th July 2008

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AN ASPIRING actor who has been treading the boards for over 50 years has been awarded a medal for his efforts.

George Preston, aged 74 from Lawnswood Avenue, Wordsley has been involved in Brierley Hill Amateur Operatic Society, now called Brierley Hill Musical Theatre Company since 1957.

At Brierley Hill Musical Theatre Company Concert held at the Civic Hall in March, George was presented with a National Operatic and Dramatic Association 50 years medal by NODA regional rep Ken Clift.

George joined the group after he finished his national service in the army and was asked to go along with his friend and he has been with them ever since.

He said: “I have been in every show since 1957, which makes it 49 shows, last year would have been my 50th consecutive show but I missed it as I was in hospital.

“My favourite part has been playing Professor Higgins as it was a more challenging role due to the dialogue.

“The show itself is really well written, it is a particular favourite of mine.”

George who remembers being terribly nervous before his first acting part in Kismet, said he still suffers from nerves but combats them by knowing his lines and trying not to bump into the furniture.

He added: “I am one of the longest standing members and I am proud to have been awarded the medal, it is quite an achievement.

“I plan to carry on with the company for as long as possible as it keeps me active and it is something to do.”

George is currently gearing up for the part of Mr Brownlow in the company production of Oliver to be performed in October.