Sir Patrick Stewart makes a rare appearance…

8 December 2011

From those taking their first tentative acting steps to an eminent stage and screen actor, it was a very busy day at the theatre yesterday (Thurs 7 Dec). We had already performed our Christmas show The Wind in the Willows at 10.30am and 2.30pm to a packed theatre of school children. From 4.30pm we held three performances from our Associate Youth Theatre in the Lily Pond. This involved 45 children aged from 5 – 13 years and their family members watching their end of term demonstrations.

Finally,  Sir Patrick Stewart hosted An Audience with… event on stage at 7.30pm.  Sir Patrick was interviewed by friend and Watermill Associate Artist Euan Smith and answered an array of questions from the audience. He then mingled with guests in the theatre restaurant after the event. The theatre was packed with fans of Sir Patrick who were clearly mesmerised by his stories about his role as Captain of the Enterprise in Star Trek to his renowned theatrical performances in Shakespeare classics.

Sir Patrick talked of his rise to fame from a West Yorkshire school boy to international film star. This included tales of acting with Vivien Leigh, the lengthy audition process to star in Star Trek and his love of outdoor pursuits including scuba diving and skiing!

It was a truly memorable evening and all proceeds raised from the event will go towards the theatre’s fundraising. We have so far raised over £8,000 – a fantastic amount! This rounded off a hectic but enjoyable December day at The Watermill. We are so grateful to Sir Patrick for giving his time to help us raise much needed funds and to Jackson Stops and Staff who sponsor our “An Audience With…” events.

Ria Jones
Development Officer