The 2012 Beat DISH Theatre Awards!!

The 2012 Beat DISH Theatre Awards, Photos by DISH Photographer Richard Gilmore & Details for Next Year! Hilton London Ballroom January 17, 2012 If a hotel ballroom teeming with nearly four hundred patrons hooting and hollering in a collective chorus of surprise and satisfaction is an indicator of this city’s hugely thriving theatre scene, it is clearly unnecessary to look any further. Tuesday evening at London’s Hotel Hilton was the scene of the 2012 Beat Magazine Theatre Dish Awards gala which in its third year is growing in popularity and prestige. It is the time and place to celebrate excellence at the local level of comedic, dramatic and musical theatre productions. This year’s grande fête got underway with the opening performance including Donald D’Haene and his ensemble of dancers. Despite the energy and jazz hands this number was a "drag"… only in the sense that Donald, the awards’ organizer and producer, did his thing in true reversal of Victor/Victoria fashion. I’m certain Ms. Andrews would have been proud – maybe even Cher. The rest of the evening’s activities proceeded with nary a glitch as awards were given out, speeches extemporaneously articulated and performances shared, all as hearts skipped a beat or two in awaiting the names of winners being outed from their respective envelopes. Cable T.V.’s Jeff Leeson and Lars Classington (above) helped to create an informal yet professional ambiance with their quips, witty rejoinders, and playful interaction with the audience. It was refreshing throughout to hear genuinely grateful acceptance speeches without the treacly solipsism that usually accompanies similar award ceremonies. Many of London’s High School performers were also honored for their talent in their respective school shows and their exuberance and gratitude could be discerned clear across the ballroom from one end to another. [Right: Alexa Roebbelen] Almost forty awards were presented from honouring Best Gams to Best Stage Manager to Best Drama/Musical. A lot of china was distributed to many smiling faces; there was obviously much significance attached to being a recipient in being recognized for hard work, commitment and a love for the magic of the theatre. A panel of judges was part of the selection process that ultimately determined the outcome of these awards. This year appears to offer another season of great theatre for all of us to attend and enjoy. Many legs will be broken again to be sure. Multiple Bravos, Bravas, and Bravi are to be extended for the indispensable participation of The Beat Magazine, and of course the indefatigable efforts of M. Donald D’Haene who freely donates his blood, sweat and smiles to one of London’s singular and yearly events which is quickly becoming one of the parties not to be missed. For all his hard work and visionary ideas should we henceforth call him Sir or Dame Donald? [or maybe both as befits the occasion?] More photos here: http://www.thebeatmagazine.ca/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=869:the-beat-dish-2012-winners&catid=23:theatre-category&Itemid=37