September 19th, 2016
An exciting day as our new shoes arrive – both tap and ballet. Marie remarks that ‘they’re just like old friends’ and immediately starts dancing. June, who arrives once Marie has gone, decides to teach. It is Katie’s first day with us and she gets thrown in at the deep end, getting told many times by June to ‘tuck your bum in’ and ‘remember you’ve got a neck’! June’s family are with her, including her son Gavin, who has brought his camera, so there are two cameras in the room – Gavin’s and our own Martin Clark who has started to document footage for our film. Not an issue for June who loves being in front of the camera.
Just as we are about to leave, at the behest of Paul a tuba band, the wonderful Granny Green Trio, bursts into the room (they have been playing at another event in the theatre) and give a private concert for June, who performs solo, and then duets with Katie all for the camera and the audience of Festival Theatre staff who have gathered. That spirit and that performance presence – it makes the skin tingle. – Janice Parker
An Audience With... 