Blake to the future (From Free Press Series)

Blake to the future

The new Blake Theatre in Monmouth is creating something of stir among the arts world having already lined up performances by the National Orchestra of Wales and legendary saxophonist Courtney Pine.

Noel Davies talks to the theatre's artistic director Rachael Blacklaws...

When Rachael Blacklaws arrived at Monmouth School four years ago starting a theatre was the last thing on her mind.

The school's new drama teacher was keen on breathing new life into its thespian quarter and teaching the romance of the stage. But launching a new theatre? That was something beyond her wildest dreams.

It wasn't long though before Rachael's imagination was running wild after feasting her eyes on the school's tired-looking assembly building.

"It was something of a 1960s eyesore," remembers Rachael. "The school used it for assemblies, but the acoustics in it were poor so it wasn't used for much else. Last year though we took the decision to turn it into an arts theatre.

"It was exciting having before us this real possibility. We wanted to keep the original footprint of the building, but turn it into this great centre for arts and theatre."

Since that first tentative step work has pushed along at a keen pace and now less than 18 months later The Blake Theatre's doors are open. Already an array of British talent has been booked to perform there with BBC Singer of the World finalist Ailish Tynan the first later this month with what promises to be an unforgettable recital.

"It's a hugely thrilling line-up," enthused Rachael. "I'm a huge theatre enthusiast and it's enthralling to think we have such a fabulous line-up for our first season. It's an eclectic mix with lots to satisfy different tastes.

"This is the first time I have been in charge of a theatre. It's a wonderful role. I was really excited when the brochures for our first season arrived."

The theatre itself seats 550 and has close links with a number of musical and dramatic companies including the Monmouth-based Merlin Music Society, which over the last 40 years has enthralled the town with hundreds of world-class concerts including a rare performance by Bryn Terfel.

"Initially we were going to start small and build up, but we have been lucky in securing so many big names for our first season.

"The idea is to keep getting the same calibre of artists we have up until now and also work with more local amateur groups. We have some lined up to perform here after Christmas. The theatre will be home to a mixture of local, national, amateur and professional talent," explained Rachael.

As artistic director she will be working closely with her partner and playwright Mark Rind who is the theatre's technical manager.

For information on how to purchase tickets either contact 01600 719401 or log onto www.theblaketheatre.org

September 14 Whale Rider, film club; 20 Ailish Tynam; 30 Betty Fisher and Other Stories, film club.

October 4 Richard III performed by The KAOS; 7 Anorak of Fire; 12 Nine Queens, film club; 14 BBC National Orchestra of Wales.

November 6 Courtney Pine: Devotion; 16 The Others, film club; 19 Boothy Graffoe; 25 Take Refuge; 27 Christmas Craft Fair; 29 Theatre Revue.

December 2 Gala Charity Christmas Concert; 3 Petersen Quartet; 8-10 The Wind in the Willows.