THE PHOENIX Theatre Company in Ross-on-Wye has been recognised for its exceptional contributions to local theatre at this year’s National Operatic and Dramatic Association annual awards.

The theatre, which has been a staple of the town’s cultural scene since 1922, saw two major achievements that highlight the talent and dedication of its members.

At the awards ceremony held recently in the West Midlands, the Phoenix Theatre Singers were awarded Best Concert, a testament to their outstanding musical performances.

This recognition reflects the choir’s ability to bring together both seasoned performers and newcomers, delivering high-quality entertainment to the local community.

In addition to the Singers’ accolade, long-standing Phoenix Theatre member Brian Jackson received a Special Award for his direction of the play Maggie May.

Mr Jackson, who has been a central figure at the theatre for many years, was praised for his thoughtful approach to the production, with the association acknowledging his ability to handle a sensitive subject with "care, sensitivity, and remarkable vision."

This special recognition adds to Mr Jackson’s impressive portfolio of work and further solidifies his reputation as a key player in Ross’s theatre community.

The awards come on the back of a strong year for the Phoenix Theatre, with recent productions, including Love on the Dole, drawing near sell-out audiences and glowing reviews.

The association’s review of the play noted “fantastic direction” and highlighted the “talented cast” that made the production a standout performance in the theatre’s history.

With these prestigious awards under its belt, the Phoenix Theatre Company continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing high-quality entertainment to the local community.

The theatre’s achievements at the awards are a fitting recognition of the hard work and dedication that have been a hallmark of the company for more than 100 years.