Have you got your ticket? Now on with the show.
In August 1966 at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital a society was formed to strengthen staff relationships and bring together members from all over the site from nurses, doctors and even administrators. All contributing to the overall morale of the hospital. And what was this magical society that had such an impact??? Well that would be The Queen Elizabeth Hospital Revue Society.
The idea was born from a conversation between Reverand Stan Judge and several members of staff on ways in which the community could spend money within the hospital. The final decision was a combination of skits that relate to aspects of the hospital and the staff. The title of this production was Skullduggery and was the first of many productions. It was produced by Tom Nelson ( who was from the Royal Adelaide Hospital Revue Society and was invited to produce Skullduggery).
It was a huge success and all the proceeds were donated to The Friends of The Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Where to from here?
1984 saw the production of “Oh Boy, Oh Boy”. This was the last of the yearly performances. Due to lack of interest from staff there was a break of nine years before the return of the Revue Society with the TQEH’s 25th anniversary performance of “Silver Stitches” in 1991. Written by Richard Venus it was compiled from archival material of The Queen Elizabeth Hospital Revue Society. Again a roaring success. For this anniversary production special edition Port and Champagne were released.
“It has done a great deal for the hospital and involves many more than those that appear on stage and the friendships it has engendered amongst staff members is kept alive throughout the years”
Pam Venus – CALHN Health Museum Volunteer
In 2004, the twentieth show was produced and called ‘Now that’s a Score’. It was to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of The Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Held on Saturday 4 September at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre. Again the producer was Richard Venus and Musical Director Tony Strutton.
Over the years all money raised was donated to “the Friends” (The Friends of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital) who volunteer their time to help patients and their families.
With the passage of time it had become more difficult to gather the cast and crew and became no longer financially viable. The Revue Society still remains in the hearts of all those who participated.
Pam Venus – CALHN Health Museum Volunteer
Written by Kellie Branson, CALHN Health Museum