Theatre stalwart Di Leach makes triumphant return to Te Puke Repertory Theatre

After seven years away due to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) following significant life events including heart surgery, Di Leach is returning to Te Puke Repertory Theatre. Leach has been a stalwart of the theatre for nearly 40 years, having acted, directed plays and pantomimes, served as a committee member, and run children's drama schools. During her illness, she was unable to leave her house, answer the phone, write properly, or have visitors. Her recovery was encouraged by hearing stories of others via podcasts who had also overcome similar challenges. Leach will appear on stage next week in 'Call Girls', a comedy written by New Zealand playwright James Kirkpatrick, playing the role of Angela, one of four residents in a private retirement home. She was cast after a successful audition and said she is happy to be back at the theatre after several years of recovery.

Originally published in Te Puke News by Sun Media.