When theatre people get together.............

I'd just like to add, then I'll get back in my box & close the lid! A lot of the crew were either working at the local picture houses [projectionist] or were Firemen. I think Bobby was with Berger Paints full time & the only theatre work was at the Maj, Playhouse or the Capitol. J C W's would bring in large Musicals occasionally, at that time. which came by train, except they had to keep changing trains, because of the different Rail Gauged systems, between States. The roads were hopeless & the ones that attempted it, would not always make it across the plains. Your right the vast majority of shows, were mounted by local theatrical societies & there was a vibrant competition between the Capitol & Maj. Playhouse did mainly plays, as it does today, so was not in the same competition as such. Although people like Jimmy Punch & Bobby Sherman were gainfully casually employed doing the Scene painting. also another was Ray Ormadea [spelling ?] did a few sets casually. i think the only ones employed full time, did the Box Office, besides the Management. This was before my time, but apparently old man Edgley, who also owned the Maj Hotel, adjoined to the Theatre. Fifteen minutes before the the Hotel pubs closing time, no matter what show was happening on stage at the time. He would Lean over the Balcony in the centre of the House & ring a hand bell. Calling out repeatedly "Last Drinks gentlemen - please"! Then the show would carry on & most of the male punters left the auditorium, for their last quick swill.

TOI TOI TOI CHOOKAS

[May you always play to a full house] Hear the lights & see the sounds.