A bunch of ‘sassy Kiwi ladies' who love to sing find themselves in more than a little trouble when they venture beyond normal routines in the musical comedy ‘Ladies for Hire' presented by the Waihi Drama Society this month.

Val Ferguson director of Waihi Drama Society's ‘Ladies for Hire' with the ladies: back: Glynis Taylor, Fiona Gudsell, Anne Preddy. Front: Paula Dickson Tracey Carter, Anita Worthington.

Written by successful New Zealand playwright Alison Quigan, the comedy is directed by Val Ferguson – herself something of a legend in Bay of Plenty and Waikato drama circles.

Val's dramatic journey began more than 40 years ago, when she joined the Morrinsville Little Theatre as a seamstress, graduated to acting, then directing, producing some big shows including ‘Oklahoma', ‘My Fair Lady', ‘Stepping Out' and ‘Hello Dolly'.

Since moving to Waihi 10 years ago she's continued to produce musicals and has appeared in a number of shows for the Waihi Drama Society including playing the pig called Dolores in ‘Footrot Flats'.

'I love everything about theatre from costumes, to set design, to directing,” says Val, who believes ‘Ladies for Hire' is the ideal entertainment for businesses, clubs or organisations planning a Christmas function.

Musical director for the show is Katikati's Lynne Cotton and the comedy has a cast of experienced local actors and singers. The Waihi Drama Society has a great venue in Boyd Rd with seating for up to 80.

‘Ladies for Hire' plays from Wednesday, November 19 to Saturday, November 29. Matinee performances are 2pm on Saturday and Sunday, November 22-23. Plus, 7.30pm performances will be on Wednesday, November 19 to Saturday, November 22 and Wednesday, November 26 to Saturday, November 29.

The cast and crew for Waihi Drama Society's production ‘Ladies for Hire'. Back: Colin Francis, Simon Nelson, Keith Ferguson, Ezra Thompson, Mike Cotton, Helen Gudsell, Andrew Kirk. Middle: Anne Preddy, Paula Dickson, Fiona Gudsell, Tracey Carter, Glynis Taylor, Anita Worthington. Front: Val Ferguson director and Lynne Cotton musical director.