April 1989

I have been spending a lot of time in Melbourne recently, that is the reason in fact why we have been running a bit late with the magazine, for which I appologise to members and readers. But I have taken the opportunity to try and have a look at the amateur theatre scene in the city for the purpose of getting a few ideas and just having a look see at what differences, if any, there are between cities.

I have managed to get along to a few out of town venues and I have noticed some great contrasts. I have come across groups who have venues and facilities that would make your mouths water. Computerised lighting systems that do away with the need for an operator. A stage with an inbuilt full revolve and room to fly a tank. And wing space enough to present a circus on stage.

On the other hand, I have also seen venues which, like so many of ours, are very modest and sometimes difficult to work with. One was sometimes moved to pity at the conditions some were operating under yet, it seemed to me that the atmosphere of enjoyment seemed to be much greater where the task was harder.

I also got the impression that the most important factor in any theatrical endeavor, the audiences, seemed to respond better under those same circumstances. When I say respond, I mean in both reaction to performances and in numbers. In pondering this question, it suddenly became obvious what the answer probably was.

Those groups who had not poured all of their resources and efforts into backstage, had shared some of their effort with the front of house and the auditorium. more comfort, more atmosphere, more of all those things we all like to enjoy when we go to the theatre.
Interesting, don’t you think?