Hopefully, the panto horse in the theatre window will have made a few people smile- it's a signal that says: Hello, we are still here, we are still working, and we will see you all sometime soon!
 

The theatre itself is upside down now- ladders, wires and tools everywhere- with new toilet cubicles built, some basins fitted and most of the plumbing now in place- waiting for the electrics. The work in the auditorium is also very exciting. We have a new "sound stage" being fitted, which means we will be able to cater for full choirs, and can do away with some of the mics on stands. This technical innovation will really come into its own when we put on our next big cast show. It will enable those with quiet voices to be heard clearly from every part of the theatre.

Other work is the installation of a new hearing loop. We hope this will make it easier for those with hearing aids to fully participate in all our productions. The loop has been extended into the foyer and the green room too. New speakers have been installed in the technical area, the green room and all dressing rooms so that cast and crew can hear what's going on on stage. Now no-one should ever miss a cue!

The grants we received earlier in the year are paying for this refurbishment, and the extended lockdown period has allowed us to get on with the work. We continue to upgrade our technical facilities to bring our audiences a near-professional theatrical experience. Our new moving head lights, soon to be installed, will massively increase the range and scope of our lighting. Not only will they wash the whole stage, with anything from the brightest sunlight to the coolest moonlight, but they will spotlight anyone on stage or in the auditorium and act as follow spots. They change colour at the touch of a mouse and will flood the stage with ultraviolet too. These two lights do the job of many older lights put together, and extend the range of special effects to enhance the theatrical experience. 

These improvements excite and energise us, and we can't wait to share them with you in all the shows we are planning for next year. Make no mistake- we will be ready for the off as soon as we are allowed! 

We will all meet again- we do know where, although not when!