ANGLES THEATRE: Best of luck with return of Brother That's The Blues

THROUGH your pages may I please offer my warmest congratulations, and wish the Company the very best of luck, as one of the hottest shows ever to take to the stage will return to Fenland's unique and historic Angles Theatre with the return of Brother That's The Blues tomorrow and Saturday.

Nine years ago the last artistic director left the theatre, amidst front page banner headlines in the local press, and warnings about the imminent closure of the theatre due to very inadequate funding.

At the time I was serving as an Executive Officer of the registered charity that ran the theatre and, to prevent closure, I volunteered my services as the volunteer theatre manager for three months, in an attempt to save the venue.

I needed a show I could sell, which needed no costs for performing rights and no costly set or costumes.

I rang the only man I knew who could possibly make this happen; I rang Kevin Shippey.

Needless to say, the show was not only a sell-out success but it gave me the much needed cash to begin the financial rescue of the theatre.

Following their obvious success, the band stayed together and toured for several years.

During my years as the theatre's volunteer manager I brought the band back many times, always due to never-ending public demand.

Kevin never refused to bring the band to the theatre, totally free of charge, to help keep Fenland's only designated arts venue alive.

Kevin is now the theatre's chairman so it remains in safe hands.

Welcome back boys, and thank you.

MO STEWART

Volunteer Theatre Manager, The Angles Theatre

Sept 2000 - April 2004