June 2012
Was it feasible? It was many years since the Playhouse had last been open and used. It would need to be thoroughly cleaned, and some refurbishment would have to be done. Could they get sponsorship? Who could they ask?
Angela felt a tingle of apprehension and excitement go through her body. It would be marvellous if she could fulfil her father's ambition to reopen the theatre for the local community.
Angela suddenly had a vivid memory of herself sitting at her father's knee, listening to the fantastic stories of how he and her mother had met, as young teenagers, whilst on tour acting in Music Hall and Variety shows. His voice always seemed to take on a different tone, and he seemed to go into another world, of times past.
Her parents had given Angela a love of literature which had lasted her all her life. Now she had the opportunity to really do something to encourage people to keep literature alive for others.
Several months later things had changed. They had managed to get local sponsorship and a gift from an anonymous benefactor. The theatre was alive with a buzz of activity. Builders, electricians, plumbers and decorators all mingling and working together. There was an atmosphere of anticipation in the building. Things were happening. Things were coming together.
A couple of local dramatic societies and a dance school had shown an interest in what was happening. They had all said they would like to book the theatre for future shows.
Angela had been pleased and had felt a hint of nostalgia. Her parents would be proud. She felt the opening show should be a celebration and a memorial to times past, something on the lines of the old Music Hall and Variety shows, her father had loved so much.
Now Angela stood in the centre of the theatre, looking towards the stage. It was set; it was happening. People were in the dressing rooms changing. There was a buzz around the place. Tickets had been selling well. Could it be a success?
Suddenly the doors of the auditorium opened, and people started to come in, chatting and finding their seats. Angela hurried backstage to check all was well. Everyone seemed excited. A show was to be performed and once again the Playhouse would be full of potential. It would have a future after all.