Leading light at the Regent takes a bow

Charles Forbes farewelled after 20 years of ‘doing the hard yards’ at theatre but his knowledge won’t be lost

Charles Forbes leaves the Regent on Broadway after 20 years leading the theatre. On Friday, Charles was farewelled in the theatre at a function attended by invited guests.

Acting general manager David Walsh said Charles was a very likeable chap.

“He has a lot of theatre knowledge and has done all the hard yards.”

Charles started at the Regent in 1998 as staff technician, and, in 2000, stepped up as general manager.

David opened the Regent for the Palmerston North City Council in 1998 to get the project under way, and was general manager for 18 months before Charles took over the reins.

Charles’ hard yards that David spoke about included everything to do with compliance, health and safety, structures and liquor licensing. He is also a qualified electrician.

“Charles has a lot of institutional knowledge,” David said.

It is this knowledge David says that Charles will continue to share. “In this industry you do not just walk away.”

As staff technician he would pack up the stage sets. “He knew what touring shows required.”

A new general manager is being sought. David says that will likely take the theatre in a new direction.

Charles Forbes has retired after 20 years at the helm of Regent on Broadway. He listens to mayor Grant Smith at his farewell, watched by the Regent Theatre Trust Board chairman David Lea.