GAFFER TAPE AWARDS?

I'm sorry to see that you've had no responses to this, Gaafa. You would certainly have my support on it, but I have to admit that I haven't a clue about how to make it happen. I do know only too well what it's like being a 'back room boy' though. After all the years I spent out in the professional world painting sets and scenery (even designing a few sets), making models and props, always working against punishing deadlines to the severe detriment to my health - only to see others take all the glory and credit, I at last achieved some recognition through my involvement with community theatre. The award I received at this year's Finleys, oddly enough, meant a great deal more to me than missing out on the more glamorous award that I was nominated for. I believe the award I received was the first one of its type ever given, and I sincerely hope to see someone else receive it next year. We don't, of course, do the things we do because we want to win awards, but it certainly is very nice to be recognised for our efforts. Take it from me, community theatre is an infinitely more appreciative world than that of the cold and hard professional one, where the attitude seems to be "well, it's your job - that's what you get paid for. How dare you expect to get thanked for sacrificing your health and having no life outside of work?" I've spoken elsewhere on this forum about the many (or is it few?) people who are always there whenever there's work to be done, and who quietly go about their tasks with no thought of reward other than a mention in the programme and a box of chocolates after the last night of the show. Yes, the 'warm props' do tend to get the lion's share of the glory, but I, like you, would like to see a greater emphasis attached to the unsung heroes and heroines who help to make them look good in the first place. I could mention names, but I won't for fear of singling out individuals to the exclusion of others and potentially causing embarrassment. There's always room for improvement and for all I know there may be moves afoot in that direction - in fact I'm sure there are. At least I hope so. No, don't evaporate or pull your head in. Ideas have to come from somewhere! All the best, Tim Prosser.