The Derby Theatre Launch
As a University that wishes to provide students with real employability skills... this is a golden opportunity.
”University of Derby Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Michael Gunn
Theatre launch goes with a bang!
Fireworks greeted the dawn of an exciting new era for theatre in the city of Derby on 24 July 2009.
Invited guests were at the new Derby Theatre to enjoy the surroundings and to be there for the announcement of the forthcoming season's programme of events.
And the pyrotechnics on stage activated and lit up the arena with a brilliant display as the new theatre was officially declared open!
We took on the lease for the former Derby Playhouse in May and then teamed up with Derby LIVE, part of Derby City Council, to launch the theatre.
Welcoming guests, our Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Michael Gunn said:
"The University of Derby's mission is to be the learner's first choice university for quality and opportunity. What better way of meeting our mission and living by our values than to have the opportunity to develop the concept of a learning theatre. As a University that wishes to provide students with real employability skills, especially through experiential learning, this is a golden opportunity."
Guests were treated to:
- a sneak preview of the new-look décor
- refreshments in the foyer
- a series of speeches from invited guests including representatives from the University, Derby LIVE and the Arts Council
- a first glimpse of the new season's artistic offerings as the formal production programme was unveiled.
There was a regal theme to the whole event as two Queens were among the star guests.
The Snow Queen is the classic fairytale which will be the focus of the main Christmas production and Queen Elizabeth I, aka Lesley Smith, Tutbury Castle curator, and also University of Derby honorary award recipient.
Both Queens took part in a media photo call - complete with snow effect - and greeted guests while Queen Elizabeth I also spoke at the launch, in her spectacular royal costume. She brought real Elizabethan drama, grace and elegance to the stage as she heralded and celebrated the opening of the theatre.
Members of Uncontained Arts, a graduate theatre company, also attended the launch.
A unique learning theatre
Delegates then heard from other guest speakers about our vision for a 'learning theatre' - where staff and students can gain vital work experience and skills in all forms of theatre production and management:
- on stage
- behind the scenes
- in the Box Office, and
- promoting their shows to the public through marketing.
The uniqueness of the partnership between the University and the local authority, aspiring to bring live amateur and professional productions to the Derby Theatre, was also discussed.
