The November 26th meeting of Trinity Players’ committee, held at Trinity United Reformed Church, opened with Barbara Parkinson reporting that the group’s donation to the church, in recompense for the use of the hall for rehearsals and shows etc., had been graciously received.
Committee members Paul Taylor (chairman); Dale Rivers (secretary), Anne Prew, Jim Parkinson, Ian Harley and Barbara were joined by Bob Willerton, director of the pantomime production, Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood
Bob reported that the production had now been cast despite difficulties in recruiting a dame. In the end Andrew Crossland had galloped to the rescue in that role.
Other principals are Esther Dyson as Robin, Phil Johnson as the Sheriff, Chloe Goddard as Maid Marian, Lynne Allmand as the Fairy, Joanne Morfitt as Lady Malfoy, Alice Willerton as Alan o’ Dale, Rose Naisby as Cod, Becki Swinden as Piece, Ian Harley as King Richard, John Parker as Little John, Dale Rivers as Will Scarlet and the Rev Nick as Friar Tuck.
Several others, including some newcomers and children have gained speaking parts with one or two yet to be cast. Mondays are to join Wednesdays as rehearsal nights in December with selected Saturdays used for children
PANTO APPEALS – Bob would love to hear from anyone who could step into the role of costume manager. Responsibilities would include liaison with members of the cast to determine costume requirements and sizes etc. and helping with the selection process.
Similarly Neil Barham would be delighted to hear from anyone willing to help with set decoration and prop production.
Ian Harley, meanwhile, reports that the whips and chains, used to encourage front-of-house staff recruitment, are being readied for use.
PANTO PUBLICITY
Consideration was given to all aspects of publicity including mailshots, the cost of a display banner, newspaper and radio coverage, promotional use of the website and social networking sites, the printing of posters and flyers and the targeting of their distribution.
It was decided that, in addition, to purchase the right to man a stall at the Alhambra Centre from 11am to 3pm on Saturday, January 4th. Cast members may then be asked to appear in costume in two shifts to help distribute flyers and generally publicise the show.
SPRING PLAY
Two offers to direct next year’s spring play were considered. In the end it was decided to accept that of Karen Slater as she has not had the opportunity of directing a TP show for several years. It is hoped the play can be staged at Trinity in the week commencing May 12. That would give us the flexibility to take the production to the Wakefield Festival should we wish to do so.
SOCIAL
Members attending the Christmas social event at Barnsley FC on Friday December 20th are reminded that Peter Horner requires all monies ASAP and certainly by Monday, December 2nd.
Peter is also interested in hearing from all those interested in dining out together around the time of the Chinese new year. Last year’s event was very successful and coincided nicely with the end of the pantomime so watch this space!
FUTURE PRODUCTIONS
The meeting heard that the Lamproom Theatre may not be able to offer us a slot for a production there during next year’s Autumn season.
ELECTRICAL SURVEY
Jim Parkinson reported that an electrical survey has to be carried out at the church and hall. The results of the survey could result in additional expense to the church and disruption to TP operations.
CONSTITUTION
As time was getting late, it was decided to place this item on the agenda for the next meeting.
POLO SHIRTS
Our chairman is now in possession of the long-awaited polo shirts and will be delighted to hand them over to those who have ordered them on receipt of the £6.
NEXT MEETING
Monday December 30th at 3pm at the home of Dale Rivers.
All comments etc. to: committee@trinityplayersbarnsley.com