OPEN-AIR THEATRE

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 31976, 1 May 1969, Page 13

OPEN-AIR THEATRE

The Nelsen Open-Air Theatre is a new-and growing organisation which makes the best use of both climate and civic features which tan be used for outside dramatie productions. At Easter, on the eastern slope of Church Hill, ' the company put on the Passion Play to an audience of 2500.

The success of this venture was such—and on an a typically cold night—that there is a strong move for ’ Utfs to-be made an annual event The theatre is a : community effort; it is for the Nelson public and visitors alike. It ls free, but a collection is made because there

are always some expenses which have to be met The producer is Mr L. Assheton - Harbord, who has had much experience in this kind of enterprise.

The cast for the Easter Passion Play was more than 100. In January the theatre first spread its wings with a performance of “The Merchant of Venice’’ in Queens ' Gardens.

This was enthusiastic-' ally received; and the season next January will be •Twelfth Night” Production of “Hamlet” on the Cathedral steps next February is now being planned. The Open-air Theatre is sponsored and supported by the Nelson City Council and the Nelson Arts Council.

It is the hope of the theatre to secure a permanent site in Fairfield Park.

This would be the best site of all. It is a natural site for a theatre with a gentle slope down to the position for the stage—and room for up to 20,000 people.