The stage newspaper recently highlighted a rather astute observation made by none other than Griff Rhys Jones, who boldly proclaimed that without regional theatres, the West End would simply devolve into a never-ending parade of musicals. And let’s be honest, he’s absolutely spot on! It’s a truth so undeniable that it could probably win an argument against even the most fervent fans of jazz hands and big belting ballads. Picture this: a humble little show starts off in some cosy regional theatre, perhaps with more charm than budges. But then, like a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis—or perhaps more accurately, like an over-caffeinated tortoise on roller skates—it gains momentum and eventually makes its grand West End debut! Regional theatre is not just a quaint stepping stone; it’s the launchpad for many productions that go on to become massive hits. Who knew that your local theatre could be the secret ingredient for future blockbusters? And if fortune smiles upon it—and let’s face it, what kind of theatrical fairy tale doesn’t involve some serendipity—the show might even take to the road in a glorious tour, revisiting those very regional theatres where it all began. Imagine the irony: performing at the same venue where you once nervously fluffed your lines—talk about coming full circle! Regional theatres are truly the bedrock of productions across all genres—be it musicals that make you weep with joy or plays that leave you pondering life’s deepest questions; cabaret acts filled with questionable jokes or magicians who inexplicably make rabbits disappear (seriously, where do they keep getting those rabbits?). The list is as endless as my auntie’s tales about her cat!Theatre Village is here to champion these unsung heroes of stagecraft. It shouts out loud for those regional theatres that often get drowned out in the clamour of bigger names and flashier shows. So let’s raise our glasses (or programmes) to them—a toast to creativity thriving outside London! After all, if we didn’t have these vibrant venues buzzing with talent and innovation, we’d be left with nothing but an endless cycle of ‘Wicked’ remixes and reboots galore!
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