Hope and Glory

Sometimes Christmas comes early. It certainly did at the end of last year for me. I was asked to be Patron of the remarkable Hope Theatre in Islington. Evidently, according to the dictionary, patronage is a gift I give, but on this occasion, I feel I am definitely the lucky recipient.

Sometimes one uses a word without a full understanding of its meaning. Obsequious is one that comes to mind. Checking the definition of patron, it’s not one who patronises. That means talk down to you, but I’ll assume you know that. Something I would hope I’m never guilty of in this column, but probably am in life.

Evidently patronage is something one bestows. Sadly, the Claytons of South Yorkshire have no coat of arms, so the Hope won’t be getting a thespian rampant over its doors just yet. But what should it receive as a result of its generous offer for me to be its patron?

Support, in all forms that I can manage. Patrons mercifully are not expected to write a blank cheque, but they should be visible figureheads for fundraising campaigns and hopefully provide contacts for their organisation to capitalise on. Australians, I’m told, have a more forthright approach to patrons and board members regarding money. Give it, get it, or get out. No doubt there as to what is wanted then.

A knowledge of what the organisation is up to, inside and out, is probably a good thing for a patron, as well as members of a board of trustees. In these current times, it’s no defence to say, “I didn’t know what was going on”. I would hope I can also act as mentor to both the fantastic team at the theatre, and some of the actor led companies that are coming into the building. In my first week I offered artistic director Matthew Parker a handy shoe cleaning tip for a dark mark which had besmirched his favourite Day-Glo trainers. Not sure how useful it turned out to be, but it’s the spirit that counts.

Theatres at their best are supportive places. A Patron surely must first and foremost exemplify that. Good then to see another actor, Shona White, appointed recently as patron of the Playhouse theatre.

Perhaps most important of all, they should be an advocate for their organisation. Shouting loud and proud for the work it does. When so many theatres are fighting for funding and donations, the work of the patron is vital, to keep the spotlight shining on the people and teams they are giving their patronage to. Something in the case of the Hope I am exceptionally proud to do. Just as proud as I am to be patron-ised.

Foul Pages opens at The Hope - Feb 20th 2018




Book here https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/event/208605

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