Community theatre nears completion
24-Sep-2009 13:06:41
Borehamwood's community theatre, The Ark, is nearly completed and preparations have started for the opening gala in November.
Council and school representatives sitting in the auditorium - front to back: Cllr Morris Bright, Cllr Ann Harrison, Hertswood Headteacher Jan Palmer-Sayer, Cllr Brenda Batten, Theatre Manager Zoe Watkins, Clerk of Works Les Bailey, Maintenance Manager Richard Stubbs and Director of Environment Glen Wooldrige
The main building work of the 250-seat theatre at Hertswood School is done and the finishing touches will be carried out over the coming weeks.
Rehearsals are already taking place for the official opening gala which will involve 300 performers from more than 15 local community groups.
On Wednesday, representatives from the council and school, including Leader of the Council Morris Bright and Headteacher Jan Palmer-Sayer, had a tour of the new building.
Councillor Morris Bright, Leader of the Council, said: "This has been such an exciting project and the theatre looks absolutely great, I’m sure it will be a great asset to the local community.
"Local amateur dramatic societies, dance groups, local bands and schools can book the theatre for their performances and I hope the people of Borehamwood will come to watch the range of entertainments that will be on offer."
Zoe Watkins, Theatre Manager at Hertswood School, said: "It's been a lot of hard work but we are nearly at the point where we can open the doors and start enjoying our new community resource.
"It's very exciting and a number of local groups have already booked time in the space. It should be an interesting first season."
The Ark was selected as the name of the theatre following suggestions from the public and a local schoolchild won a competition to design its logo earlier this year.
The theatre's construction has been paid for by the council and a contribution from the school which will manage it and ensure the building is maintained properly. It is not a profit-making venture.
The official opening evening will take place on Tuesday 10 November with invited VIP guests.