Attending star-studded premieres and sipping champagne is one of the benefits of working in the theatre. But how much more satisfying when the shows are your own. CATHERINE ETOE reports Agonising over which show to see is something most of us have done at one time or another.

But such difficult decisions are gratifying for Totteridge-based composer Cathy Shostak, who is set to see two of her own musicals open in London within days of each other.

Cathy, 45, of Ventnor Drive, is currently helping to put the finishing touches to her new creations and anticipating the opening nights.

The Demon Headmaster, based on the book by Gillian Cross, opens in the West End at The Pleasance Theatre on December 4. Five days later, on December 9, the world premiere of The Legendary Golem takes place at Hampstead's New End Theatre.

They should do well judging by their history -- both were workshopped by the Royal National Theatre and The Demon Headmaster has been a bestselling children's book and television programme.

But New York born Cathy is no stranger to success. During her career she has written for film, television and radio, as well as the theatre, even writing songs for a major record company for three years.

"I have done everything I wanted to do and anything that has come my way for the experience," explains Cathy. "But I have always wanted to write musicals -- all my life."

She puts this down to New York roots, a city famed for its many glittering musical productions.

"It's in my blood but after seeing something on stage four years ago, I just thought I really want to do this. I can't remember what it was," she says.

"Once you have written something and it has been released on record or television it is out and you can't change it. In the theatre songs change each time they are played. People react differently every night. It is amazing."

As well as making a success out of her music Cathy has two children and juggles family life around the pressures of writing and rehearsing.

"I have a fantastic network of friends and relatives," she says. "I get up at 6.30am to get the kids to school. If I can't make it because of rehearsals someone will take them. It's army manoeuvres really -- everyone helps."

At the moment, as well as the final rehearsals for her current productions, Cathy is preparing the music for a new play.

"As long as I can keep doing this and pay the bills and see the audience enjoy it then I will be a happy girl," she laughs. "You just have to go for things in life and try everything and you will find your niche. This is my niche."

The Demon Headmaster opens December 4 at The Pleasance Theatre in North Road, Islington. Tickets are £12, with £8 concs and family tickets at £32. For more information call the box office on 0171 609 1800.

The Legendary Golem opens on December 9 at the New End Theatre in New End, Hampstead. Tickets are £10, with £6 concs Tuesday to Thursday, and £13, concs £8 on Friday and Saturday. Family tickets £28/£34. For more information and bookings call the box office on 0171 794 0022.

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