Chad fell into theatre by accident. In 1980 his mother hoped to stop her son associating with undesirable people and as a result he joined Miranda Musical Society, which he says ensured that she failed completely. After six years of what Chad calls his ‘theatre apprenticeship’ in the chorus, he was cast in his first role as the imposing town bully Earthquake McGoon in the comic book musical L’il Abner. Over the years, many other roles followed and many lifelong friendships were formed as Chad became a recognisable face at Regals Musical Society and Rockdale Musical Society as well.
In 2005, director Jim Farrow asked Chad to join The Guild Theatre to play a Dutch gangster in the Ray Cooney farce Funny Money. This was Chad’s start with the Guild Theatre and he has been a supportive member ever since.
Ever keen to learn new skills, Chad has directed several pieces for members’ nights and is a member of The Guild Theatre Director Development Program. Has also written a full-length play of his own called Top Of The Hill, which tells the story of one of Chad’s heroes, the British comedian Benny Hill and his rise to fame. It was performed at a members’ night at The Guild in June 2017.
By day, Chad works to get young people into apprenticeships and job interviews. His other interests include classic comedy, especially the Marx Brothers on whom he is an authority. He is also a very proud father and coaches his son Andrew’s cricket team, the Bangor Barden Ridge Comets, Under 12s.
‘Community theatre is important as it gives not only performers the chance to improve their confidence, self esteem, and gain life skills, but also audience members who are .’ – Chad Smith
CREDITS
At The Guild
Previous Roles:
Mr Big in Funny Money | Homer in Mornings At Seven | Chief Warden Hodges in Dad’s Army | Jonathan Brewster in Arsenic & Old Lace | Squire Allworthy in Tom Jones | Inspector Hardy in Brush With A Body | Rev Martin Gregory in The Holly And The Ivy | Max in Managing Carmen
Other Companies
Previous Roles:
Earthquake McGoon in Li’l Abner (Miranda Musical Society) | Earthquake McGoon in L’il Abner (Regals Musical Society) | Jud Fry in Oklahoma! (Rockdale Musical Society) | Jud in Oklahoma! (Regals Musicals Society) | 2nd Gangster in Kiss Me, Kate! (Rockdale Musical Society) | 2nd Gangster in Kiss Me, Kate! (Regals Musical Society) | Charlemagne in Pippin (Rockdale Musical Society) | Charlemagne in Pippin (Regals Musical Society) | Miles Gloriosus in A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum (Regals Musical Society) | The Wreck in Wonderful Town (Bankstown Theatrical Society)