Emeritus borne of merit
Director Emeritus title recognises playwright’s on-going contribution to the Stephen Joseph
Sir Alan Ayckbourn has been given a new title courtesy of the Stephen Jospeh Theatre – Director Emeritus, in recogntion of his long-standing commitment to the stage and his successes in Scarborough.
Scarborough-based playwright Sir Alan Ayckbourn has another title to add to his name – that of Director Emeritus.
He was awarded the honour by the artistic director of the Stephen Joseph Theatre Paul Robinson at the launch of the summer repertory season.
Sir Alan said he was delighted to accept the honour – even though he had to ask what it meant.
“It is my pleasure to announce that Alan has been appointed Director Emeritus,” said Robinson.
“On one level it recognises the huge debt the Stephen Joseph owed him, a debt of 60 years and counting of distinguished and loyal service,
“It is not just about the past. It also serves as to recognise that the relationship with the theatre is closer than ever, thriving in fact,” he said.
“We are looking forward to working with Alan in ever new and exciting ways in the future.”
Sir Alan has been associated with the Stephen Joseph Theatre for 60 years including being its artistic director for more than 30 years.
He has two plays in the summer season: a revival of Joking Apart and the world premiere of Better off Dead.
“Paul had to explain to me what the title meant and I am honoured to accept,” said Sir Alan.
Emeritus is used to denote perpetual status of the founder of an organisation or individuals who moved the organisation to new heights.
“It sounds like something out of a university. I never went to university, I am completely uneducated and left school at 17.
“These things arrive and you never look for them or expect them, but it is jolly nice,” he said.
It was also announced that for the first time the theatre will visit the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August.
It will be taking Build a Rocket, by Scarborough-born writer Christopher York, to the prestigious festival.
Build a Rocket is a one- woman show directed by Paul Robinson and telling the story of young, feisty Yasmin, a Scarborough girl who’s been dealt a rough hand and has to decide whether to give in or get smart.
It was first performed at the theatre last summer as part of a programme of play readings.