I have long been a supporter of Millgate Arts Centre and Saddleworth Players. Having been a member of Oldham Lyceum players for many years and volunteering on the bar occasionally, I appreciate how much time, effort and energy goes into each production.
Many years ago, I had the pleasure of interviewing author Louis de Bernieres on the Millgate stage as part of a fundraising event for Delph Library; another example of how volunteers are so vital to their community.
I have also enjoyed the annual pantomime with my daughter in recent years and have booked for Rumplestilskin this Christmas :).
Delph regulars Ian Crickett and Alayne Whitworth encouraged me to contact Saddleworth Players when we were in Hindle Wakes together at the Lyceum. I was actually asked to be in Alice in Wonderland first (November’s production) but when I saw the auditions for Curtain Up!, I felt it was more suited to my acting style.
I was a little shocked but overjoyed when Verity Mann rang to offer me the part of Jackie. Curtain Up! has been so much fun to be part of, with a supportive cast and a caring director, Mike Lawlor. There are some hilarious moments as well as a few that will hopefully pull at your heartstrings. It reminds me of one of my favourite plays (and films) Stepping Out.
I’d like to thank everyone at Millgate for making me feel so welcome and encourage anyone reading this to volunteer for your local theatre and support them in whatever way you can. There are loads of ways to get involved. You’ll make some great friends and have lots of laughs!
Maybe see you in the bar after Curtain Up! 😉
Suzanne Hudson
Suzanne Hudson plays Jackie in Saddleworth Players production of Curtain Up! at the Millgate Arts Centre from 30 September to 7 October. Tickets £12 (students £6) from TicketSource.
Lovely story Suzanne