At the 50th anniversary of the founding of Ballarat National Theatre, Sonja researched and collated information about the company’s history, interviewed those who were involved throughout the years and organised the publication of a book titled ’50 Golden Years’. Many of those whom Sonja engaged to contribute to this book are no longer with us, and her documentation is an amazing access to the voices of those who came before us. This extensive archival work has been the backbone of all BNT historical record keeping since, and is enabling the now over 80-year history to be organised and accessible to the public.
An excerpt from her book is hosted on the BNT website and has been developed for web over the last 2 years by Liana Emmerson. This online excerpt activates Sonja’s research by enabling links to the relevant productions with additional information, relevant newspaper clippings and timeline context. You can view that excerpt of Sonja's work here.
In 2013, Sonja was invited to make a further comment to her work, originally published in 1988. Below are her own words about our community and company.
Addendum at the time of the 75th Anniversary 2013
In my 1988 publication a section was included which contained memories of several of Ballarat National Theatre members who had been a significant part of the Theatre’s 50-year history. Memories and anecdotes (painful and funny) were supplied by, Bob Baker, Peter Barwood, Albert Dulfer, Ian Field, Marj Ford, John Fox, Gordon Henderson, Philip Hobson, Peter James, Geoff Richards, Connie Russo, Doug Sarah, Val Sarah, Joy Smith, Jenny Strickland, Alan Wakeling, and Thelma Walker. Sadly, some have now passed away, but their enormous contribution to the emerging live theatre in Ballarat has helped to shape today’s Ballarat National Theatre, an enduring and still vital part of Ballarat’s theatre world, which continues to fulfil Gertrude Johnson’s vision of 1938 – “...to produce the best possible entertainment at moderate prices”.
My sincere congratulations to Ballarat National Theatre on a “job well done” in attaining its 75th Anniversary. I think I speak for all members and audiences over the years in wishing BNT good fortune in the coming years, and keenly anticipate the Theatre’s Centenary celebrations in 2038.
May we cherish the memory of Sonja to 2038 and beyond, and remember in every future year that her treasured contribution was foundational in building whatever comes next. What a gift to be able to contribute in our own way to a company she has been part of, knowing that future members who may not have met her will be connected to her, and those she ensured were remembered, through a legacy we can together continue to carry forward.
Vale.
