The first in a series of four animated oral histories, depicting people’s memories of life in Truro and the influence that City Hall / Hall For Cornwall has had to their lives. Episode one features lifelong Truro resident John McLoughlin who has many a tale to tell of life at City Hall’s famous Fatstock markets as well as life as a Hall For Cornwall volunteer.
The second in a series of four animated oral histories, depicting people’s memories of life in Truro and inside City Hall / Hall For Cornwall. Episode Two features an interview with Bryan Churcher who has been integral in Hall For Cornwall’s transformation as part of the Appeal Group and a past chair of the Fundraising Group. Hear him share the story of his parent’s marriage at Truro Cathedral and the experience of holidaying in Cornwall before relocating to the county and his support of a wide range of charitable fundraising projects.
The third in a series of four animated oral histories, depicting people’s memories of life in Truro at City Hall and Hall For Cornwall. Episode Three features an interview with Roger Heayn who’s life is utterly entwined with Truro and the buildings of Lemon Quay. Hear his memories of WWII in Truro and the experiences of being a school boy in Truro during a bomb explosion.
The fourth in a series of four animated oral histories, depicting people’s memories of life in Truro at City Hall and Hall For Cornwall. Episode four features the story of Christine Holmes who volunteered at the Hall For Cornwall from its beginnings in 1997, right up until it’s final performance prior to transformation in 2018.
The first podcast in a micro-series, commissioned by Hall For Cornwall with journalist Karen Pirie. In the first episode, hear from BBC Radio Cornwall DJ and former Front Of House Manager Debbie McCrory. Listen to her tales of scandal, intrigue and backstage gossip with a whole host of stars who have graced Hall For Cornwall’s stage over the years. Series recorded pre-Covid.
The second podcast in a micro-series, commissioned by Hall For Cornwall with journalist Karen Pirie. In the second episode, hear from an impressive trio who frequently work together at Hall For Cornwall. Actor Ed Rowe, Director Simon Harvey and musical director Richard Healey. Hear their discussion of their hopes for the future of the theatre, what they enjoy about working together and what Cornwall can offer by way of support for the creative industries. Series recorded pre-Covid.
The third podcast in a micro-series, commissioned by Hall For Cornwall with journalist Karen Pirie. In the third episode, Karen interviews Hall For Cornwall CEO Julien Boast and theatre advocate and loyal friend of the theatre, Sue Ferguson. Hear their thoughts on the transformation of the hall and exciting plans for the future. Series recorded pre-Covid.
Keith 1 : the annexe was used a lot for different things, including rehearsals for the main shows. One Saturday evening we had a singing rehearsal in the annexe. There had been a caged bird show in building next door and the birds tried to join n the singing.
Chris : it used to be used for teas for the cast between the matinees and the main evening show. On the last night everyone on the stage would be presented with a gift and during that day families would be coming in with presents which were stored in the annexe until after the final performance had ended.
Keith 1 : we also entertained it to entertain other societies from across Cornwall. We also went to other places.
Keith 2 : when you had a show which was very popular you would open up the annexe as well – there was restricted views but it let more people in.
Joyce : there was a proper bar in the annexe
Joyce : My father Cecil Gill , known as “Cec’, did the sound for all TAODS productions for more than 50 years. He owned an electrical shop in Pydar Street and as well as doing the sound for TAODS, also provided the sound for key events in Truro, such as the Mayor Making and the Fatstock shows via his van with speakers on the top.
Keith 1 : Back then health and safety was not thought off and I remember having to climb up a ladder to the beam at the top of the stage and then having to shuffle on my bottom along the beam dragging electrical cables behind me while Cec was shouting instructions from below. Cec also used to go to the City Hall the night before ticket went on sale to supervise the people who were camping out.
Joyce : Ann and Jill always used to camp out in front of the hall overnight before a show so they would first in the queue to buy them. Keith 1 : eventually more people started queuing overnight and one day there was a big queue with dozens of people camping out to get the best tickets. It was a really rough night with wind and rain and they were all getting wet, cold and miserable when the caretaker opened up one of the dressing rooms so they could sleep inside.