Sunderland Echo Article 1982

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Uploaded on: March 11, 2016

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This cutting was given to me by my very good friend, the late Brett Childes back in 1982, the topic being the 50th Anniversary of the theatre which opened as Blacks' Regal in 1932.

The photo shows Brett and the ‘Head Usherette’ in his office (part of Blacks' original HQ located upstairs in the ‘tower’ at the Front of House)together with a model of the theatre’s Compton Organ console and various ephemera relating to major stage presentations hosted by the venue over the years.

One thing I am at a loss to understand is the article’s reference to Phil Kelsall being the main ‘live’ attraction at the 50th Anniversary event.

I was there together with my parents , the three of us having been personally invited by Brett and we attended the lavish reception afterwards in the Office Suite. At this time I was Manager of ABC Chester and I arranged my Spring week’s holiday so that I could attend the celebration, particularly as the Odeon’s closure seemed to be imminent and which did indeed come to pass, unfortunately.

Now, unless there was a second event which I did not attend (and I do not believe that there was), my only recollection is of Douglas Reeve from the Dome Brighton being the organist on that occasion. Mr Reeve’s wife also sang on the stage accompanied by her husband at the Compton.

I do not recollect Phil Kelsall being there in any way shape or form and I am pretty sure that I would have remembered him!

Can anyone assist?

Can anyone assist me here?