The Pirates of Penzance and Steel Magnolias both earned the M and D Society nominations in the prestigious awards, which will be announced on Saturday 21 February.

This year’s Parkes nominees (pictured below) are:

* Dooley Thompson - best actor in a featured role in a musical as Sergeant of Police in The Pirates of Penzance

* Amy Deardan - best actress in a featured role in a play as Annelle in Steel Magnolias

* James Whalan - best actor in a leading role in a musical as Frederic in The Pirates of Penzance

* Madeline Hands - the Patricia Kelson Encouragement Award as Mabel in The Pirates of Penzance

* Belinda McGrath - best costume designer for a musical or variety show for The Pirates of Penzance.

The CAT Awards were established in 1994 to recognise the enormous contribution made by non-professional groups to the artistic life of Australia and, in particular, Canberra and the region. They also encourage individuals in the performing arts. 

Parkes M and D has enjoyed success at the CAT Awards in the past, bringing home the 2013 award for best ensemble in a musical with “Downtown Girls”.

In 2012, stalwart Lyn Townsend was named joint winner of Best Costume Designer for a School or Youth Production for The Wizard of Oz.

The Wizard of Oz was also awarded Best Production of a School or Youth Production.

For more information on this year’s awards night go to www.catawards.com.au