Radio Active Live – back for 2026

President’s Report – Reflecting on 2025

As 2026 begins, I’m delighted to share our President’s Report and reflect on a wonderful year of quarterly productions throughout 2025. We have continued to embrace our eclectic mix of sketches and plays—something we feel has been warmly received by our audiences and has allowed our troupe to showcase its versatility and creativity.

A heartfelt thank you to Michael Williams, our resident sound maestro, whose talents extend far beyond the audio desk. Michael has also taken the lead on our graphic design using Canva, revealing a real creative flair. You may have noticed our new banners—part of our collective exploration of AI-generated imagery. Even my own picture this year reflects that spirit of fun and innovation, with an AI-created Japanese cartoon version of me!

Behind the scenes, Michael continues to enhance our technical quality through improvements to our sound setup, including foldback monitors, and his expert use of QLab for sound design and performance. His contribution enriches every production we present.

Our dynamic and intuitive director, Diane Abbott, continues to guide our ensemble with insight, energy, and creative instinct. Diane brings out the very best in the material we select—and in each performer—ensuring every production is engaging and entertaining.

A special acknowledgement goes to Janelle, our wonderful Front of House Manager. As the first point of contact for Radio Active, she sets the tone for the warm and welcoming atmosphere our audiences experience from the moment they arrive. The friendly energy at the check-in desk is no accident—it’s Janelle.

Steve Comey continues to bring warmth, humour, and inclusivity to his role as MC. This year we’re also adding the magic of Foley to our theatrical toolkit—so expect some delightful and comical surprises ahead.

We were also thrilled to have our newest member, Jan Johnson, whose remarkable range of accents and subtle performance nuance adds depth and charm to every production she joins.

Marc Kay, who also lends his talents to directing, is a wonderfully versatile performer—capable of making us laugh one moment and deeply moved the next. Marc brings commitment and emotional richness to every role.

Phil Lye is truly a force of nature. While he may be Janelle’s husband, that’s certainly not why he’s part of the troupe! Phil is an actor of great depth with impeccable comic timing, and his enthusiasm is infectious.

Every one of our performers and production team members gives generously of their time and talent as volunteers. They do it for the love of theatre—and for the joy of sharing it with you. Their passion shines through in every performance, and I thank them all sincerely.

Annette Dix (Dixie) has been such a stalwart of our troupe. She continues to give fantastic characterisations and performances that I know you love, as I hear the laughter ‘up the back’.

And our latest member, the wonderful Jan Johnson – the spectrum of accents and nuance she adds to all she does is a joy to watch.

All of them give of their talent and time as volunteers, because they love what they do, and they love that you love it too.  Their passion and enthusiasm for what they do shines through in every performance.  Thank you one and all.
 I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of such a supportive and collaborative team. A troupe and a loyal audience simply cannot exist without each other. While we faced illness and unexpected challenges during the year, we weathered them together—and I extend my heartfelt thanks to you, our audience, for continuing to join and support us.

Stay tuned for what’s ahead in 2026. Start organising your groups as we prepare another exciting range of programs to share with you. Performance dates will be published as soon as they are confirmed.
 
Visit http://www.radioactive-live (http://www.radioactive-live/) for updates on our 2026 slate of performances.
 
Mary Dennison
President