A PANTOMIME society has won two titles at the National Operatic and Dramatic Association’s (NODA) District Awards for their production of Aladdin last year.

Ruthin Panto Society, who perform at Theatre John Ambrose, Ruthin, won ‘Best Pantomime’ and ‘Best Stage Management and Technical’ from the Clwyd and Gwynedd district in 2017 at the NODA awards on Saturday, May 19.

This comes in the same week as the group won the Ruthin Town Council’s annual ‘Ruthin Community Group of the Year’ award.

Dave Snape, treasurer for the Ruthin Panto Society, said: “Aladdin was the fifth show since the group formed and is testament to everyone involved.

“From the start of the rehearsals in September to clearing the theatre in February takes a lot of hard work by over 100 volunteers including cast, crew, technicians, chaperones and front of house staff.”

The group’s performances are held annually during the February half-term.

Mr Snape continued: “We are very lucky to have the support of many businesses including Ruthin Castle, Tommy’s Hair and Richard Williams as well as the shops who buy space in the programme and donate towards our fundraisers. The show truly would not be possible without them.”

John Wynne Hughes, chair of Ruthin Panto Society, added: “To win two awards from a national organisation is amazing but to also be recognised by the local Town Council means the world to us all.

“I am so proud of everyone who helps us throughout the year.”

Since the award-winning performance of Aladdin, this year’s February production saw Robin Hood take to the stage, helped by the children of Ruthin Youth Theatre.

Work has also started on the group’s 2019 production, Beauty and the Beast, and will be performing a medley of songs from a very popular hit cinema story at Ruthin Carnival on June 23.

To join or volunteer for Ruthin Panto Society, contact the group via their website at www.ruthinpanto.co.uk or their Facebook page.