As the Everyman prepares to close on Saturday, Laura Davis presents the theatre’s story, as told in the pages of the Daily Post
HE MADE his stage debut as a butterfly in a primary school production. Then he was promoted in the next show to the role of the front legs of a brown cow. Now bearded, 25-year-old Martin Jenkins has given the cold shoulder to stardom and a promising career to fulfil a dream. To establish Britain’s biggest and most exciting cultural arts centre in Liverpool.
Re. the Everyman’s first artistic director, August 26, 1964
“The fate of the Everyman is very much in the balance. As far as I am concerned, I think it would be tragic for the city if the Everyman were to fail.”
Harry Livermore, Everyman chairman, October 2, 1965
“Let this thing die now.”
Cllr H MacDonald Steward, Conservative leader, January 6, 1966
Director Peter James is keeping his fingers crossed that the chief prop in his production of The Alchemist doesn’t go wrong. For the prop – an intricate magic machine that flashes, smokes and bubbles – plays an important role in this version of Ben Jonson’s play. It’s made from old television sets, fruit machines, wireless parts and old cars, and runs on electricity.
April 23, 1968
What is puzzling the company is the way in which different audiences have reacted . . . Wednesday night’s audience enjoyed the performance, although the comedy got few laughs. Thursday night’s audience laughed heartily. Friday’s audience was comparatively subdued. Saturday was laughter night again.
Re: A Day in the Death of Joe Egg, October 1, 1968
Every night Paola (Dionisotti) has to consume on stage a meal of two pork chops, sauerkraut, peas, chocolate cake and two peach Melbas.
Re: Days in the Trees, December 2, 1969
Merseyside repertory theatres will be hit by a new pay deal, which will double the minimum pay of actors. And the new rise – from the present £10 10s minimum to a basic £20 – may mean that some of the 60 provincial theatres in the country will be forced to close unless local councils give them more money.
