Hyde Theatre Royal Onward Trust had a stall in the market last Saturday promoting their efforts on behalf the theatre. I met my friend Muriel there and she pointed me to a programme for the Hyde Light Opera Company's production of the Merry Widow starring Mary Dilworth. Juxtaposed on the back cover is an advert for Barlows' tailors "The Outlook is Double Breasted".
Hyde Theatre Royal is a beautiful Edwardian theatre opened in 1902. The Theatre Royal Onward Trust has been working for some years to preserve, restore and re-open the theatre. It is envisaged that the restored theatre could be used not just for theatre and film, but also weddings, conferences, dinner dances, commercial business launches, sporting events, live music, touring art exhibitions, fashion shows and so much more. An options appraisal carried out for the group confirms the project is viable and is supported by the Theatres Trust and David Wilmore, one of the country’s leading theatre restoration experts.
The building's owner has now offered the theatre to the trust for £250,000 and they are calling on people to get behind this project and raise the necessary funds. Once they own the building they will be able to apply for funding from the Heritage Lottery and other sources for the refurbishment works.
Full information about the theatre and the Onward Trust can seen on the Theatre Royal Hyde website.
View also my photographs from the 2006-2008 Heritage Open Days
A contribution to ABC Wednesday.
What a truly fascinating post! Seeing the photo I thought you were going to say "M is for Mother" but the lovely lady wasn't your mother at all! Enjoyed seeing and reading about The Merry Widow and program!
ReplyDeletenice bit of history
ReplyDeleteROG, ABCW
I agree with Linda and Roger. Fascinating piece of history.
ReplyDeleteWil, ABCW Team.
I LOVE old programs, both from concerts/stage productions and from old movies. This is great, the way the actress is wholly herself, no big primping or show. It's a detail from which today's stars could learn.
ReplyDeleteAlso, my birth name is Barlow, so what's not to like, LOL? Found you after posting my p;oem to ABC Wednesday! Amy
I've heard some of that music in concert here- it is lovely.
ReplyDeleteCan you imagine renting out the space for a wedding, it would be glorious. Hope the project gets completed.
ReplyDeleteAnn