T3 Theatre Newtownabbey take 
to Zoom after play show is cut short

As the country entered lockdown the company had to abandon their show after just three performances.

“Coming just as the Drama Festival circuit was under way in March, lockdown had a huge impact on Theatre 3,” explained Honorary Secretary Paul Cuming. “Having rehearsed John Pielmeier’s powerful play ‘Agnes of God’ for months, our run was cut short after only three performances.

“When it was obvious that there would be no returning to the stage with this play, we embarked on rehearsals for our Summer production, ‘Death by Fatal Murder’ by Peter Gordon. How? Zoom of course.

“Twice weekly, the director oversees her cast, all in their respective homes. Hopefully, as some restrictions are lifted, we will be able to actually see each other in the flesh as garden rehearsals are being planned. However, our summer show is our main source of income each year and, unless theatres are allowed to stage plays very soon, our finances will suffer greatly.

“To keep spirits up, and to keep everyone involved, we have also been meeting on Zoom every Wednesday evening, alternating play readings with quizzes. All very enjoyable but not what we signed up for.”

In 1984, Newtownabbey had three amateur drama groups. They got together and decided that was two too many and Theatre 3 was born. In 1990, the committee agreed the addition of Newtownabbey to the name. It’s first ever full length production was Edward Albee’s classic ‘Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf’, and it has been performing three plays each year ever since.

“Perhaps it is not widely understood that mounting a production, for festivals, summer theatre or just a few performances in a local hall, can cost thousands of pounds,” continued Paul. “Amateur drama clubs across the country are in the same boat and, without help, some are bound to go under.

“When we do come out the other end of this pandemic, let us hope that people will get behind groups like ours. We are not professionals. We do what we do for the love of live theatre and to entertain as many people as possible. We need public support.”

The company are always looking for new members. To find out more email [email protected].