Mary Reid

This was such an important event for us that we flew home from Jamaica overnight to make sure we did not miss it this evening. At last, at last, the Rose Theatre is a reality.

This was the atmospheric set that greeted us as we stepped into the auditorium. (Yes, I know I'll probably be in trouble for taking photos inside, but it was before the play started, and it was without flash!).

The wide unobstructed stage, with its excellent lighting rig, offers so many theatrical possibilities. Couple this with a near perfect acoustic and the extraordinary way in which nearly a thousand people can each feel so close to the actors, and we have a dramatic space which is unique. 

The first performance in the finished theatre was Peter Hall's production of Chekhov's Uncle Vanya with the English Touring Theatre. When the actors entered at the beginning the place erupted with applause and cheers; at the end of the play the actors joined in the clapping, acknowledging what a very special occasion it was.

This won't, of course, be the last time I write about this theatre which has been close to my heart for getting on for ten years. All I will say now is you have to go to see what we're all enthusing about. The website offers online booking or you can call in at the box office any day.