The nature of Parliament means that I don’t get to go the theatre as much as I would like to so I was very pleased to have the opportunity to pop in to Brentwood Theatre last week to hear about the work that our excellent community theatre is up to.
Jake Bedson is now Brentwood Theatre’s manager, and it was great fun to meet him and theatre Trustees, Penny and Jos Hollington, for a backstage tour. For a theatre which sees shows with multiple performers on and backstage, there is surprisingly little space behind the scenes to get on and off stage, and store props and scenery during a show.
Over the years, Brentwood Theatre has been extended, improved and upgraded its bar area, and is now undergoing careful and fiscally responsible renewal and refurbishment of its lighting and sound rigs, to make them more adaptable and cheaper to run. It’s likely some of the old equipment will be available for schools and villages halls who want to replace or increase their own lighting, so do keep an eye on the theatre’s Facebook posts for news of what kit might be available.
It’s good to hear the theatre is booked for shows, National Theatre Live events and film showings for most of the rest of the year. Tickets for the Christmas show, The Elves and the Shoemaker, are already on sale and there will be relaxed and signed performances available too.
It was wonderful to see that the place is in good hands and look forward to visiting soon to see a show and supporting this wonderful community theatre.
