'Thanks and Best Wishes' from Teri McCarthy, outgoing chair
Dear Friend and Member,
As I leave the role of Chair of DAW, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all members and friends for the support I received since taking on the role of Chair in 2012.
I have met some wonderful people along the way, enjoyed some excellent Regional Festivals, Wales and British Finals, learned so much at our Summer Schools thanks to our Vice Chair, Sue Jones for organising them, and made lots of new friends. It hasn't been easy, but then no one expected it to be; what it has been is very special.
I was even fortunate enough to chair DAW's hosting of the British Final Festival of One-Act Plays at The Sherman Theatre, Cardiff in July 2016 which was won by The Unknown OUTCasts from Cardiff. The first time Wales have won in 24 years. What an amazing night that was and what a memory it has left me with!
I must mention all the members, groups and individuals and friends, who answered my appeals with their donations. Your generosity completely overwhelmed me as we wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for you! DAW will always be grateful to you all.
Thank you to all the Trustees with whom I have worked, the Vice Chairs who have helped along the way; Lon David, who is sadly no longer with us; Geoff Lake, Gareth Gibbs and Sue Jones. Everyone was wonderful. Thanks also to anyone who has volunteered in the past and those who still are: Beverly Fletcher who helps me tirelessly in the office; and Leon Searle who works behind the scenes beavering away updating the Web, sending out any information he receives, or mostly from me, plus he has a full-time job! Thank you everyone I wish you all every success for the future.
I would also like to thank our Patrons: Sir Anthony Hopkins CBE, Mr Wynn Calvin, MBE, Connie Fisher and especially Mr Michael Sheen, OBE, who was such a great support, especially when we held the British Final in 2016.
However, my final thanks must go the Drama Association of Wales who have given me the most amazing 5+ years. It may have turned my hair grey, but it has all been worthwhile. I have memories I will cherish for the rest of my life.
I have been very emotional these past few weeks as this has been a huge part of my life and will leave a big gap to fill. However, I am sure my grandsons will help me fill those admirably.
Now it is on to the future. Please let me introduce to you the new Chair, Vice Chair and Trustees who I know will take DAW forward with great enthusiasm.
Officers:
Chair - Shirley Betts - Llansantffraid Glan Conwy, Clwyd
Vice Chair – Sue Buckley - Llansantffraid Glan Conwy, Clwyd
Treasurer – Vacant
Trustees:
Geoff Lake – Pencoed, Bridgend.
Gareth Gibbs – Gelligaer, Hengoed.
Teri McCarthy – Cardiff, South Glamorgan.
Sue Jones – Guilsfield, Welshpool.
Richard Williams – Cwmbran, Gwent.
Anthony Evans – Ystradgynlais, Swansea.
Co-opted Member: Leon Searle - Cardiff, South Glamorgan.
Please continue your support.
With every best wish for the future.
