News
The Duchess visits the Theatre Royal Bath
22nd October 2009
The Duchess of Cornwall "thoroughly enjoyed" a performance of George Bernard Shaw's "Mrs Warren's Profession" at the Theatre Royal Bath, in Somerset, as she helped launch the theatre's refurbishment campaign.
Her Royal Highness joined a capacity crowd at the 200-year-old venue to watch Felicity Kendal – who starred as Barbara Good in the BBC comedy series “The Good Life” – in the lead role.
"Mrs Warren's Profession", written in 1893 but banned until the 1920s, concentrates on the relationship between Mrs Warren and her daughter Vivie, whose lifestyle has been funded by the "oldest profession".
On arrival at the theatre, of which she is Patron, The Duchess attended a reception for invited guests to launch the Main House Fundraising Appeal for 2010.
She was introduced to The High Sheriff of Somerset, Mr John Alvis, The Mayor of Bath, Councillor Colin Barrett, Bath MP Don Foster and members of the theatre management team.
Miss Kendal said: "It was wonderful to be a part of this special occasion and it was a delight to meet Her Royal Highness after the performance.
"The Theatre Royal is a special place and I have many fond memories of performing on stage here. It is important to safeguard the future of this beautiful playhouse for generations to come."
Danny Moar, director of the Theatre Royal, said: "We are proud that the theatre has achieved a significant portion of the funding required for the refurbishment work through its own endeavours. A fundraising appeal is now being launched to raise the remaining funds necessary to ensure that the project can be undertaken.
"Bath's historic theatre is about to enter a new and exciting phase in its 200-year history and we are thrilled that The Duchess can be with us on this important date."
Writer and journalist Bel Mooney, chair of the Fundraising Appeal, said: "It was an honour to introduce The Duchess of Cornwall to the Appeal Group and guests at the launch event."
Next year the theatre will take on a programme of essential work front-of-house and back-stage to conserve and update the Main House, improving current facilities.