HMAS Albatross has been part of Nowra culture and life since World War II, but many aren’t aware of its association with the Albatross Music Theatre Company.
“It actually started out of a conversation between warrant officer Derek and the commanding officer of Albatross,” AMTC President Marie De La Torre said.
“They were trying to decide on a recreational activity for the naval personnel and because the Gilbert and Sullivan was out of copyright they didn’t have to pay anything to secure them. They decided they would do a Gilbert and Sullivan operetta.”
Once they began performing shows outside of the Gilbert and Sullivan repertoire, they wanted to change their name to Albtaross Music Theatre Company to include all musical theatre.
After 40 years, HMAS Albatross and the Albatross Theatre Company still have close ties.
“The commanding officer will always be our patron,” De La Torre said.
