Childrens Theatre open today

Press, Volume CXV, Issue 33783, 4 March 1975, Page 12

Childrens Theatre open today

The Malthouse, the home of Canterbury Children’s Theatre at 69 Colombo Street, will be opened to the public at a special open day on Sunday from 10.30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This historic building was erected by the Packer family in 1867, and was used until 1955 for malting by various breweries. The Canterbury Children’s Theatre bought the property from Ayson’s, Ltd, in 1965, and since then has added to the building to make it more suitable for the society’s work. Members of the public will have the opportunity not only to tour the complex but to see the theatre’s wardrobe, with its colourful costumes, masks, and headpieces. There will also be displays of properties and stage sets. The Canterbury Children’s Theatre is also busy planning for its May production, “Treasure Island,” to be produced by Bryan Aitken from May 3 to 17 in the Repertory Theatre.

On the Tuesday after the open day, auditions for this production will be held at the Malthouse. This adventure play gives wide scope for maie actors. The young hero of the play is Jim Hawkins, and the producer is looking for a likely lad aged about 13 to 15. The only female part is that of Mrs Hawkins, a comely woman.

Bryan Aitken acted with the children’s theatre before travelling to Britain to gain further experience. While there, he toured for London Children’s Theatre Company.