Robert T Lumsden 1934-2024 NODA Past President

Following the passing of Bert Lumsden on 20 June 2024, after a short illness, one word has been used by all who have paid tribute – gentleman. Bert was indeed a gentleman who devoted a significant amount of time and effort in supporting amateur theatre locally in Dundee, as a member of Dundee Operatic Society and NODA Regional Representative, across Scotland as NODA Scotland Councillor and latterly across the UK as NODA National President.

With his wife, Anne, being a member of Dundee Operatic Society, it was almost inevitable that Bert would become involved with the club. Whilst never appearing on stage, Bert worked away in the background. Initially elected as secretary of the club in 1966, he served in that role until being elected treasurer in 1974. In 1975, he was elected vice-president becoming president from 1976 until 1979. Bert also served on the casting committee as well as working front of house during show week. When he stepped down as president, Bert was made an honorary vice-president of the club.

As well as Dundee Operatic Society, Bert was also a great supporter of the Whitehall Theatre in Dundee helping to develop it into the success it is today. He served as a trustee for several years before handing it over to his replacement as regional representative, Roger Buist. He was also a patron of Downfield Musical Society from 2000 until his passing.

When Jack Underwood became NODA Scotland Regional Councillor in 1984, Bert was elected to succeed him as regional representative for district 2. He worked tirelessly supporting the members in the district offering help and support and making regular visits to both their rehearsals and productions, always accompanied by Anne.

When Celia Walker became NODA National President in 2003, Bert was honoured to be elected to replace her as NODA Scotland Councillor. This role saw Bert and Anne travelling all over Scotland to visit member club’s productions. At each visit they always took time to speak to all involved both on and off stage and because of these visits made many lasting friendships across the country. In his role as councillor, Bert represented NODA Scotland on the NODA Council where he worked hard for the interests of the membership north of the border, earning the respect and admiration of his fellow council members. During his time as councillor, Bert, with the support of Anne, organised the annual NODA Scotland conference at Peebles Hydro ensuring the weekends were always a great success.

In 2008, Bert was thrilled to be elected NODA National President resulting in two conferences that year at Peebles Hydro within the space of a few weeks! His new role saw him and Anne travel all over the UK representing NODA at productions and regional conferences. When his year in office came to an end, Bert continued to serve on NODA Council until having the honour of being elected NODA National President for a second time in 2013. Once again, Bert and Anne fully immersed themselves in the role and welcomed the chance to engage once again with members all over the country.

When Bert finally stepped down from NODA Council in 2017, many warm tributes were paid to him for his dedicated and diligent service over so many years. He was thanked for his wise council but most importantly for his and Anne’s friendship over that time.

 

Despite recent ill health Bert and Anne continued to attend the NODA Scotland conference and visit numerous productions across the country always on hand with a friendly word of advice or support. Bert was due to turn 90 in September this year and both he and Anne were very much looking forward to catching up with friends at Peebles in October when NODA Scotland will celebrate 70 consecutive conferences at the Hydro.

Over so many years, Bert and Anne were a constant at shows all over the country and at Peebles Hydro. Bert will be missed by members across the country and NODA Scotland gives thanks for his unstinting service and dedication to amateur theatre.

NODA extends its sympathy to his wife Anne at this sad and difficult time. Bert, thank you for all you did on behalf of NODA but most importantly thank you for being a friend.

Stuart McCue-Dick

NODA Scotland Councillor