Share your memories of The Montgomery with a special exhibition

[John Highfield 0]

FOR well over a century it has been Sheffield’s home to community theatre, gang shows, dancing school extravaganzas and concerts.

 

And now city centre theatre and arts centre The Montgomery is wanting people to share their memories of the great productions they have seen or been a part of.

 

There will be a rare chance for audience members to go behind the curtain and explore a fascinating backstage story of The Montgomery as the Surrey Street venue takes part in national Heritage Open Day on September 14 from 10am.

 

It will be an opportunity for people to delve into The Montgomery’s theatrical past and celebrate the acts and shows that have appeared on the much-loved city stage.

 

But organisers are hoping that people with memories to share will come forward with their old photos and memorabilia for a special exhibition that will form the centrepiece of the Open Day event.

 

“The loose theme of this year’s Heritage Open Day is People Power and we want it to be a real celebration of the people of Sheffield and the many generations who have enjoyed the shows on our stage,” said The Montgomery Marketing and Programming Manager Rachel Jack.

 

“We have been here for over 130 years and in that time a whole history of popular culture has been on our stage.

 

“We’re not just talking about the popular musicals that range from Gilbert and Sullivan to Broadway hits but also all the many decades of Gang Shows, dance school productions and many other forms of entertainment.

 

“Big local theatre companies like Manor Operatic Society have appeared on The Montgomery stage in the past so we’d love to hear from them and share their photos.

 

“But most of all we want this to be a celebration of the many different forms of entertainment and the many people who have appeared on our celebrated stage.”

 

The popular Surrey Street theatre and arts centre has been part of the fabric of city life since it first opened its doors more than 130 years ago, surviving both the Blitz and a devastating 1971 fire to become the home of many of Sheffield’s leading community theatre companies.

 

“Bring us your pictures, your programmes and even your old stage props and ticket stubs because we want this day to be a real celebration of The Montgomery’s place in Sheffield’s heart,” said Rachel.

 

“And from this exhibition we are hoping to build up our archive and provide a permanent record for future generations as they too enjoy The Montgomery and celebrate both its past and its future.”

 

Anybody who has items to place in the exhibition should contact Rachel as soon as possible on 0114 272 0455.

 

[scousemouse 10]

Some old friends where involved with Elmsdale operatic society many years ago  Stan was make up and Dorothy was in the box office.  They used to take one of the local girls each evening to see behind the scenes.  I have happy memories of that time probably over 60 years ago. 

[lil-minx92 10]

3 hours ago, scousemouse said:

Some old friends where involved with Elmsdale operatic society many years ago  Stan was make up and Dorothy was in the box office.  They used to take one of the local girls each evening to see behind the scenes.  I have happy memories of that time probably over 60 years ago. 

Hmmmmmm.....