Touring the Theatre

This afternoon Michaela* and I set off on an all-exposing tour of the inner workings of Richmond Theatre. Armed only with our wits and the guidance of Adam (the very friendly stage manager), we were eased into the tour with a quick trip around the dressing rooms, technical equipment stations and labyrinthine backstage corridors. After following Adam through a seemingly random door we emerged onto the vast black expanse that is the Richmond stage. It was silent and entirely empty- being devoid of any sets, props or actors- which emphasise the size and gave it a grand and imposing effect.

Although standing centre stage and looking out onto the crimson auditorium was daunting, there is only one way to gauge the sheer enormity of the place: by visiting 'the grid'. This is a complex platform of crosshatching wires and wooden beams suspended fifteen metres above the stage, accessible only by (very tall) ladder. With a helping hand from Adam, we were able to overcome vertigo and reach it, even testing out our newly acquired technical skills along the way. We continued our exploration of the theatre on the roof, in the 'cave' above the chanelier and in lighting boxes, until we had wriggled and crawled into every conceivable corner.

The whole tour was very 'hands on'. We learned how to operate all of the different equipment around the theatre and were allowed to test it out ourselves; using the two spotlights to follow Adam around the stage whilst playing around with the size, colour and intensities was a particular favourite of mine. Although nerve-wracking at times, the tour was exciting, detailed and permitted us to learn an enormous amount. I am sure this is the only way to truly experience Richmond Theatre.

Lucy Moss is doing work experience at Richmond Theatre and didn't tremble.
*Michaela is the Earth-name taken by a lovely Australian lady in the marketing lair. Fear her- Ed