It may not have the red carpet and the rain may well have been pouring down, but it did not dampen the excitement and enthusiasm that was  The News Guide Awards evening at the Kings Theatre.

Showcasing the best of local talent, entertainment and eateries as voted for by readers of The News, this annual event really highlights just how much is on offer in Portsmouth, Southsea and the surrounding areas.

With special performances from Jennifer Parker-Lummis, Laurel, Emma Wilson and Bear Cavalry, the audience applauded the nominations across the categories before the winners were announced to well-deserved cheers.  Many congratulations to all the winners but particularly to some great locals talents who have performed on stage at the Kings Theatre, especially Sally Goddard for winning best actress in her role of ‘Calamity Jane’ for South Downe Musical Society, Peter Colley for his portrayal for a dying cancer patient in ‘Calendar Girls’ for CCADS, The Portsmouth Players for winning Best Amateur Musical Production with ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and Hum Drum for their production of ‘Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off’ which won the Best Amateur Drama Production.

What was special for the Kings theatre was the announcement of the Award for Outstanding Achievement as chosen directly by The News.  This award went to our own Chief Executive Officer, David Cooper who has been steering the operational development of the Kings Theatre to a position where it is now fully appreciated as the venue of choice of major producers coming to the City. Mind you it did come as a big surprise to David and for once he was almost speechless!

A great night all round.

Mike Williams