Happy 50th to the Royal Exchange Theatre

HAPPY Birthday to the Royal Exchange Theatre.

It was purely by chance I got to see my first ever production, Larry Shue’s The Nerd back in 1982.

From then on I became hooked on all things produced at this unique theatre-in-the-round having watched actors who were masters of their craft.

The cast of The Nerd featured Gary Walldhorn who went on to find sitcom fame in The Vicar of Dibley.

In the following summer me and my best friend were attending numerous productions, watching from the RET’s reduced banquette seats and, four years later, I was reviewing there for my local newspaper, the Sale and Altrincham Messenger.

The sum of money I received from the Messenger back then wasn’t exactly fit to retire on. However, the reviews became part of a cuttings book which ultimately led to a full-time job as a reporter with the Sale and Altrincham Messenger.

Next year will mark 40 years since I last paid for a ticket in Manchester’s vibrant theatre land.

Anyone toying with the idea of a trip to the Exchange should just do so. You’re sure to have an experience you’ll never forget.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the Royal Exchange’s 50th birthday season should visit www.royalexchange.co.uk.