Nominations a testament to local talent

The Canberra Award Theatre Awards cover a huge area taking in Griffiths, Parkes, Wagga Wagga, Dubbo, Orange, Canberra, Batemans Bay and of course, Merimbula. In this last year judges assessed over 90 productions, the vast majority of which enjoy far better and larger facilities than companies here do.

So in many respects the nominations mean so much more. 

There is no facility for back projection at Twyford Hall – the stage simply isn’t deep enough; there are no digital backdrops, lighting is basic by necessity as there isn’t the room. The acoustics aren’t ideal, the green room gets very cosy with any more than six people in it and the wings, stage left are about the size of a broom cupboard.

However despite these difficulties, local companies continue to tackle complex and exciting shows much to the delight of our local audiences. The fact that the nominations and awards (for example, Simon Lovatt Best Actor in a leading role, last year) continue to flow is an absolute testament to local talent.

But I would have to say it’s about time that our facilities reflected the quality of the performers a little more.

Twyford Hall was built in 1931 and is still going strong. It is a much-used and much-loved hall which is why it should be retained and kept as the basis for any future developments.

For many year, Bill Deveril, himself a CAT Award winner, has with other members of Twyford Hall, planned and has attempted to get funding for improvements to the hall.

The hall committee has been able through its own funds to redo the toilets and has plans for Theatre Twyford to be a purpose built raked theatre adjacent to the existing Twyford Hall which would have seating capacity for 200 patrons.

The project has the support of the local members both state and federally, the local shire council, theatre groups, arts groups,craft groups,church groups and community organisations, Mr Deveril said.

Once again the hall committee plans to apply for funding to Regional Development Australia.

The arts may not be classed as vote winners but surely it is time to see the facilities upgraded.

Enter politicians stage left, or right!

                                                               Denise Dion