A fond farewell (to some)

Lucky Jim

Fifteen years ago I joined the Roleystone Theatre. I hadnÂ’t acted for some years but had missed it a lot and Roleystone seemed to be full of friendly, genuine people.

Over the years I have been involved in most aspects of theatre life. I’ve helped build and paint sets, then debuild them. Acted in all kinds of productions, sang, danced (after a fashion) and thoroughly enjoyed myself. I’ve designed posters and programmes (I even designed the logo used on our windcheaters, vests etc). I’ve served on the committee for several years as well as editing, compiling and posting the ‘Callboy’. I’ve been a key holder (living close to the theatre as I do), I’ve build props, assisted whenever I could with busy-bees both at the theatre and at people’s homes. I’ve been a team leader in the junior workshop…. I’ve even obtained and learned how to use specialist computer software in an effort to assist with a recent musical. The list goes on – but I’ve enjoyed it all!

There are many Theatre members that have done all that and much, much more. I don’t think I’m special or better, just enthusiastic: So it came as a bit of a surprise to me when after a dress rehearsal for a recent show, another member of the theatre told me that “You’ve caused nothing but trouble, you’re lucky to be in the show!”

I knew what it was about, of course, but it came as a shock as, up until that point, the difficulties had not been between her and I at all, but myself and another member. As far as I was concerned, it was not personal but something I saw as a safety precaution to ensure that the show could open on schedule.

The person meant the comment to be hurtful and I admit to no small amount of chagrin when I say that it found itÂ’s markÂ…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â….

But THANK-YOU.

I have dwelled on that phrase for several months and I agree with the words if not the sentiment.

I am incredibly lucky to have worked with the likes of Kim Martin, Maureen Plummer, Paul Treasure, Bobbies Chapman & Stephenson, Veronica, Craig Â…Â…Â…. Look the list just goes on and on. You know who you are and not a day goes by when I donÂ’t treasure the association IÂ’ve had with you all!

To have been involved in such shows as ‘The Fantastiks’, ‘Working’, ‘Seven Brides for Seven Brothers’, Kim’s excellent (musicals) both Shakespeare and Dickens and many plays is a joy in my life which I will never forget.

Yes I am lucky to be in any show with such warm, caring and talented people! As are all genuine members of Roleystone Theatre likewise lucky.

IÂ’m taking a break now. I donÂ’t know for how long but in the meantime I wish to send my warmest feelings to the vast majority of theatre members who have made my life for the past fifteen years so rich and full and, above all, lucky.

Paul Robert Presbury