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The new  brochure containing the programme for April, May, June and July is now available from the theatre. If you have a fast broadband connection, you can download it as an Acrobat pdf file in a format suitable for printing.  Click here.
May 2008  

The wide range of artistic experiences available at The Mission Theatre has been enhanced by the launch of a new venture, MissionArt.  This is a newly created art space in The Bistro Upstairs, featuring the work of two local artists, Irma Marks and Suzanne Evans.

The exhibition will run from 8th May-20th July 2008.

For more information click here.

   
March 2008  
Julie Felix Concert on March 4th at The Mission  
This concert by the iconic Julie Felix played to a packed Mission Theatre.  The audience was enraptured by songs from the 60s, more recent tracks and the charisma of this talented artist.  Belying her years, Julie Felix performed for over two hours, filling the theatre with her melodic vocal strains and an evocative guitar accompaniment. 

Fans who had seen her in the 60s had travelled from all over the country to see her, and were invited to sing along with her to such favourites as Mr Tambourine Man and Blowing in the Wind.  As politically challenging as always, Julie Felix had her audience applauding with delight at some of her more topical vocals, especially regarding the Iraq war.  After the concert Julie met her fans, chatted and signed disks, including the covers of LPs purchased 40 years ago!

One of the most memorable concerts to have taken place at The Mission, it is hoped that Julie will return in the not too distant future.

Video
   
February 2008  

Don Foster, Bath MP and Shadow Cultural Minister for the Liberal Democrats, visits The Mission Theatre

Don spent over an hour touring the Theatre and enjoying coffee and a snack in The Bistro Upstairs where he met Mel Abba and complimented her, and caterer Viv Rogers (Ramscombe Kitchen Foods), on the delicious food on offer.  

He was shown pictures of the building as it was just over 3 years ago, and was amazed and delighted by the subsequent transformation. Ann Garner (Artistic Director) and Andrew Ellison (Director) answered his questions on current audience numbers, the range of users, the improvements Next Stage had made to the building, the costs incurred and grants received. He was impressed at the range of activities for which The Mission is used and the work of Next Stage volunteers in keeping it running. Don offered practical advice and support, and plans to come to a production in the near future.  

Don's visit was most welcome and everyone at the theatre felt that he really appreciated the work that volunteers and supporters have put into The Mission and that he recognised how much the cultural and community life of the city had been enriched by the creation of this attractive, intimate, city-centre performing arts space.

Don Foster at The Mission with
Ann Garner (Artistic Director)
and Andrew Ellison (Director)

and with Mel Abba, in the Bistro

(click to enlarge)

 
   
The Bistro
Business is booming at the Bistro, thanks to excellent food, friendly service and pleasant surroundings.  Why not come along and join the regulars for a light lunch - but please note, if you are part of a large party, it would be wise to phone in advance to make sure of places.

See recent picture on the right >>>

   
January 2008  
The Mission Theatre's 3rd Birthday  
Three years ago this month The Mission Theatre opened with a Next Stage production of Alan Ayckbourn's Comic Potential.  To celebrate the birthday, Next Stage presented another Ayckbourn play, Improbable Fiction, to packed houses for six nights.

The image opposite shows cast, crew and audience members in celebration mood.

(Click to enlarge)
The Barefoot Storyteller
A new fortnightly storytelling session for 4-8 year olds began on Tuesday 15th January. 

Lucy, The Barefoot Storyteller, delighted her young audience in The Theatre Upstairs at The Mission as she told the story of The Giant Turnip. If you have a child aged 4-8 don't miss out on the fun. Come along at 4.15 on Tuesday 29th January when Lucy will be telling the story of Jack and the Beanstalk. All sessions include a craft-making activity.

(Click to enlarge)
Chris Harris and The Mission
A recent article in Bath Life featured a question and answer session with Chris Harris, who has presented his one-man shows at The Mission, and is currently appearing in Aladdin at The Theatre Royal, Bath.  In response to the question 'Share a favourite spot in Bath that isn't in the guide books', he replied:

The Mission Theatre, which has become a "must be visited" place in Bath; the sheer determination of Ann Garner and her team to make this place work is fantastic and a credit to the city.

Thank you, Chris!