HLT is in theory an amateur theatre, but the performances are truly professional. Most amateur groups have a few strong actors, with the rest rather wooden, this just does not happen at HLT.
Why not join HLT, if your acting skills are like mine dire, you can help backstage with scenery, front of house, props, bar, etc. We joined for the social side. http://www.hlt.org.nz/channels.php/aboutus/membership/