Len Brown’s visit to the Howick Little Theatre included an intimate tour, afternoon tea and a knighthood – what visit to the theatre would be complete without a visit from Her Majesty?
Playing the part, “Sir Len” enjoyed his wander through the theatre, marvelling at the upgraded loos. “That is a good looking toilet, awesome.”
His visit included a small dress-up session in wardrobe, and a thorough backstage tour before he was treated to afternoon tea. “This is wonderful hospitality.”
During the cosy tea break, he and Howick Little Theatre staff spoke of other areas that require a little fix-me-up and parking issues, although the theatre will need to put something official forward to the council before any progression can be formally discussed.
The mayor told the Times he and the council are supportive of the arts, and part of his visit to the theatre was to “see how we [council] would be able to get involved”.
“Theatre is fantastic, it lets your imagination run riot, which is especially important in these [economic] times,” says Mr Brown.
“This is amazing recognition for us – it’s terribly exciting,” says administrator and marketing manager Kathy Bigwood.
“We’ve been running for 35 years on a voluntary basis.
“Being named a finalist reinforces to everyone who’s a part of the theatre that we are doing a great job.”
From those who put themselves up on stage to all the behind-the-scenes hands, lighting technicians, directors, wardrobe and set designers, Ms Bigwood is proud of making the final and says that the theatre is a “benchmark for other amateur theatres to model themselves on”.
It’s the first time the theatre has entered a business awards competition. It’s up against some tough opposition in the tourism and hospitality category, including the International Travel College of NZ Tourism and the Republic Bar & Kitchen. The winner will be announced on September 18 at a special event at TelstraClear Pacific Events Centre.
“It’s a gala dinner, so all we need now is a sponsor so we all go.”
Ms Bigwood adds it’s great to have some recognition of “our value to the community”.
