Claudine Housen, Staff Reporter

Patrons (front row left) Fagan Calvert, the Fairfield Theatre financial controller, Simone Flowers and Sheryl Brown scan the play bill during the opening night of David Heron's 'Redemption' at the Fairfield Theatre in Montego Bay last Saturday. - Photos by Claudine Housen/Staff Photographer

WESTERN BUREAU:

Like a phoenix rising majestically from the ashes, the Fairfield Theatre, in Montego Bay, reopened with a 98 per cent full house, its first since the start of the year with David Heron's 'Redemption' last Saturday.

The gala opening was the first staging of a play at the theatre since vandals robbed it in May. Guests were treated to finger foods such as: bread pudding, barbecued chicken, sandwiches and deviled eggs while serenaded by accomplished singer Andrew Lawrence.

'Groundswell of support'

In his address to the audience, prior to the start of the show chairman of Fairfield Theatre and director for the play Douglas Prout thanked the audience for its 'groundswell of support' thus far.

"We were robbed not once, not twice, but thrice," hesaid. "We have borrowed equipment and some have been donated so that we can stage this play. We are just encouraged by you who have not allowed us (the theatre) to wither away."

"The play tonight 'Redemption' was chosen long before we were robbed, but it is perhaps fitting as we have been offered a chance to redeem ourselves. I am relieved that in spite of what happened to us we were able to dust off our pants and stand up."

Built in the early '70s with a classic proscenium arch type stage, Fairfield theatre's seating accommodates 175 patrons and some 150 of those seats were filled as Montego Bay's theatre lovers came out to participate in this rebirth of the Montego Bay theatre.

"It was good, very good," said patron Andrew McKay. "It was worth it. It is good to know that you don't have to drive to Kingston to get quality plays."

"I loved it. I loved Makeda - that girl is just versatile. After tonight's play, I am sure a lot of husbands and wives will be having a serious talk."

If the attendance, applause and cheers observed on Saturday were anything to go by, Fairfield Theatre is definitely in for better days.

Custos of St. James Clarence Nelson and his wife Lucille (beside him) join patrons in a standing ovation to the cast following David Heron's 'Redemption' now running at the Fairfield Theatre in Montego Bay.