Rita with her award
A prominent figure in local theatre has been recognised with a Spirit of Theatre trophy after 65 years working in the amateur scene.
Rita Brown, 81, was awarded the Wharfedale Festival of Theatre Spirit of Theatre Trophy - now known as The Pat Dyson Memorial Trophy - for her outstanding contribution to amateur theatre.
She moved to Ilkley in 1956, and joined the Ilkley Amateur Operatic Society in 1966, taking part in Wild Violets.
The next year saw her take the leading role of Laurey in Oklahoma. Many leading roles followed.
In 1970, work took the family to Zambia where Rita joined The Little Theatre at Kitwe.
When leave from Zambia coincided with shows in Ilkley she was able to still take part.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article