Editor’s Letter

Dear Reader I attended a tourism meeting the other day at Raven Hall Hotel, which brought together business and cultural operators and representatives from the leisure industry. There were several key areas discussed, one of which related to the Open Air Theatre. The Brunswick Shopping centre said the extra concerts and star performers had led to greater footfall, and accommodation providers present at the meeting said bookings had been made specifically on the basis of the season’s programme. The rain-risk for both performers and audience has been severely tested by what one star called a “monsoon” - and the OAT has still emerged succcessfully. The management and stewardship of the venue has also improved, I think, and it is a great setting that re-connects the original 1930s open air theatre set out in five blocks of nearly 6,000 seats plus deck chairs. I was asked to share the success of the OAT, so I have, although not for the first time! Ed Asquith, Editor Twitter@ Ed. Asquith