her "outstanding contributions to the arts in Bermuda''.

Bermuda Music and Dramatic Society volunteer Jean Hannant was presented with the Stella Halsall Award on Monday night after the opening performance of "The Cherry Orchard'' at Daylesford Theatre on Monday night.

Mrs. Hannant, who has worked closely with all the arts for many years, has performed onstage and worked backstage in many BMDS and Gilbert and Sullivan productions.

She has also sung in various choral concerts over the years and has worked in many categories with the Bermuda Festival.

A volunteer at various art galleries, including the Bermuda National Festival, Mrs. Hannant has been very involved with dance in Bermuda and has been President of the National Dance Theatre for 15 years.

On receiving the award, she said: "I am one of those people old enough to actually have known the late Stella Halsall who was owner of Newstead Hotel and a great patron of the arts.'' She continued:"I am truly honoured to receive it and I thank you very much.'' British director of the play, Jane McCulloch, was on hand to present the award to rapturous applause from the full house.

"The Cherry Orchard'' is running at Daylesford Theatre until Saturday, beginning every night at 8 p.m.

Tickets are available at the theatre box office at $15 each.

A review of the play will be published in tomorrow's edition of The Royal Gazette .

A cherry on top: Jean Hannant (left) receives the Stella Halsall Award for outstanding contributions to the arts in Bermuda following the opening night performance of Cherry Orchard at Daylesford Theatre on Tuesday. Shown presenting the award is visiting director Jane Mcculloch.