To a virtually packed house, Paul Taylor-Mills, welcomed new and seasoned supporters to the Manor Pavilion Theatre in Sidmouth, Devon for the launch of the 2024 Summer Play Festival launch.
This is Paul’s 11th year of producing the Festival and, as he said, things have changed for him during those years; not only does he run two theatres in London, but has had productions touring here, there and everywhere as well, but he treasures returning to Sidmouth for the Repertory Season which has been running for over 60 years. Joining Paul on stage, Andrew Beckett has also been involved in the Festival since 2013; he wears many hats, currently as designer of all the sets, director of a few of the plays and overall as Associate Producer. Between them they outline the full programme of the 2024 season – 12 plays in 12 weeks – with one week off in the middle to allow for the Sidmouth Folk Festival – check out the plays in the image.
A company of 40 actors will perform all the various roles, many audience favourites will return and some less well known faces – and some new ones – will be seen treading the boards in this pick and mix theatrical phenomenon – and yes, there is no other repertory season in the UK that has a longer run than Sidmouth. So some of the actors will perform in just the one play, some will do more, maybe 4, 5 or 6 and as one play is being performed in the evening, during the day, the next play will be being rehearsed – 6 days is all the rehearsal time they get!
Joining Paul and Andrew on stage were seasoned members of the Company, Dominic McChesney – who managed the feat of four plays in a row last year – and James Pellow for whom 2024 will be his 20th consecutive season. Both have many entertaining stories to tell about their experiences at the Manor Pavilion Theatre and both are looking forward to some great roles in 2024.
As both Paul and Andrew underline, the whole season is a collaborative one, from those who provide the technical side of the shows, the costumes and props, the theatre staff and, of course, the audiences. Advance ticket sales are the strongest they have ever been and so a wonderfully successful season awaits. We are waiting in the wings – beginners please!
More details of the Season can be found at www.manorpavilion.com and tickets can be booked there online or on 01395 514413
