Newton-le-Willows amateur theatre group Newton-le-Willows Amateur Dramatic Society (NADOS) walked away with an impressive seven awards at the recent NODA North West District Awards, held at the Holiday Inn in Runcorn.
The group, which has been entertaining audiences in and around Newton-le-Willows for more than 40 years, was recognised across multiple categories for their recent productions, with their pantomime Aladdin proving a particular highlight.
NADOS scooped best pantomime for Aladdin, while Andrew Marsh took home ‘best Pantomime Dame’ for the third year running. Neeve Dilworth won ‘best comedy in a pantomime’, and Harry Thompson was named ‘best lead in a pantomime’ for his role in Aladdin. Thompson also shared the ‘best choreography award’ with Grace Fisher.
Members of NADOS
Back row L-R: Leanne Barnes, Maddison Bajer-Hunt, Grace Fisher, Andrew Marsh, Em Fairhurst, Karen Charlson. Front row: Vicky Dilworth (Chair), Harry Thompson, Caitlin Barnes, Jess Ratcliffe, Jo Walsh.
Em Fairhurst was named ‘best director of a pantomime’, and Grace Fisher picked up the ‘best youth in an adult production’ award for her portrayal of Princess Fiona in NADOS’ production of Shrek!
The National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA) is the UK’s leading representative body for amateur theatre, supporting more than 2,500 groups across the country. Its North West region is the only one nationally to hold district-level award events, making the recognition all the more special for the Newton group.
Andrew Marsh, said: “It’s an amazing feeling to be recognised by an award for doing what you love! The real joy is seeing the smiles and hearing the laughter of the loyal audiences who come to see our shows at NADOS.”
If the awards have whetted your appetite for some NADOS magic, you won’t have long to wait. The group’s 2026 pantomime, Beauty and the Beast, opens this Wednesday, 18 February at St Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic High School in Ashton-in-Makerfield, with performances running until Saturday, 21 February.
Tickets are priced at £12 for adults and £9 for concessions (under 16s and over 65s), and can be booked online via TicketSource.