A NEW exhibition goes behind the scenes of Bolton’s vibrant theatre scene.

Bolton boasts one of the liveliest amateur dramatic communities in Britain.

Now, a new photographic exhibition presents a vivid picture of a year in the life of Bolton’s local theatre groups, which are all members of BATS ­—Bolton Amateur Theatre Society.

Bolton Documentary Photography has captured life behind the scenes and on stage.

Paul Cohen, chairman of BATS said: “For the last 12 months, our friends at Bolton Documentary Photography have been coming along to rehearsals taking photos to celebrate a year in Bolton’s rich amateur theatre.”

Their exhibition, entitled Super Troupers (Amateur Theatre in Bolton, 2018-2019) is on at The Gallery at St George’s House in Bolton.

The year-long showcase captures actors, from stage-struck budding talents to mature established performers, along with fantastic sets, costumes and stage-lighting.

Mr Cohen said: “The exhibition focuses on their dress rehearsals, capturing the fun and dedication they bring to their activities.”

The BATS annual programme spans a wide theatrical range, encompassing drama ­— Arthur Miller, Noel Coward, Tennessee Williams, Alan Bennett and pantomime with productions including Dick Whittington and Aladdin.

Musicals staged over the past year include Oliver, The Desert Song ­— a musical which had not until last year been performed in over 20 years ­— Cats, Grease and The Pirates of Penzance, along with variety shows, choir recitals and orchestral concerts.

A number of productions over the last year scooped awards.

At National Operatic and Dramatic Association Awards Evening celebrating amateur theatre over the past year at the Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel a number of awards were handed out to Bolton’s theatre companies.

Best Choreographer went to Lara Sydall of Walmsley Church AODS, Best Choreographer of a Youth Show went to Katherine Farrington of BCMS and Best Director of a Musical went to Phil Armstrong.

Mr Cohen said that Bolton amateur theatre scheme “continues to be one of the sparkling highlights of Bolton’s annual calendar of entertainment and culture.”

The exhibition is funded by Bolton Operatic Society Trust (The Bolton Guild of Help) and supported by Bolton Amateur Theatre Society.

Bolton Documentary Photography is a voluntary community arts group which, since 1995, has been creating photography exhibitions focusing on many aspects of life in Bolton.

The exhibition is free to enter and open Monday – Friday, 9am to 5pm.

It ends on June 28.