File photos
LEFT: Douglas Prout
Contributed
RIGHT: Paul Methuen

Denise Reid, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

When actors and actresses enter the stage of the Fairfield Theatre, St. James, to receive the first Methuen Awards for Excellence in February, it will mark another milestone for the development of the performing arts in the West.

Chairman of the Fairfield Theatre, veteran actor and director Douglas Prout, says while national accolades have been received by some western actors, "it has long been felt that actors from outside Kingston have not been getting the fame and appreciation due unto them."

As a result, Prout and other devotees of the performing arts have decided to 'level the playing field' by recognising the profusion of talent that has graced the Fairfield stage. "We think it's time we had something to recognise our own out west," declared Prout.

Nomination for awards is in the hands of a notable panel of judges who have been viewing local productions throughout the year. The awards will feature about seven plays, a number it is hoped will increase as the awards show develops, and there will be 18 categories up for honours.

And what better way to honour stalwarts, trailblazers and promising performers than with a statuette of the founding father of theatre in Montego Bay, Paul Methuen?

Founding the Montego Bay Little Theatre Movement (MLTM) in 1975, Paul Methuen is to Montego Bay what Henry and Greta Fowler are to theatre in Kingston. Deciding that we need to have well-established theatre in Montego Bay, Methuen was the driving force behind the legacy of the Fairfield Theatre.

Miniature bust

Prout said, "The community is indebted to him and it is time we recognised him." In so doing, the members of the Fairfield Theatre have sought the likes of Kay Sullivan to create the award, which will be a miniature bust of Methuen. This award will become the symbol of excellence in the performing arts for the western region.

It is with great pleasure that the management of the Fairfield Theatre is able to confirm that the inimitable Methuen will make the journey from his retirement home in Scotland to present the awards at the inaugural ceremony, which it is hoped will be an annual event.

"Things are looking up for us at Fairfield Theatre, hence this initiative to take us to even greate said a proud Prout.