Over 90 people attended an event at Theatre by the Lake’s Lakeside Cafe Restaurant on Sunday 18 August to celebrate the achievements of Graham Lamont and Vicky Robinson MBE, who are standing down from the Board of the Theatre after 25 years of service as Joint Chair(s).
Those attending to thank Vicky and Graham included long-serving volunteers and staff, friends and family members of the pair, as well as people involved in the original build.
Vicky said: “I have so many good memories, there are too many to count. This theatre is located in such an inspirational and beautiful location and it will continue to enthuse current and future generations with a love of the creative arts. TBTL is a community asset and its common ownership for Keswick and its wider communities is what makes it so special as a centre for participation and shared interest. Thank you to everyone for supporting this dream and we wish the new Chair and Vice Chair of the Board every success.”
Graham commented: “We’ve had a wonderful night, it was fantastic to see friends old and new, to reminisce about past times and to look forward to the theatre’s exciting future. We know it’s in good hands.”
Graham and Vicky worked tirelessly for years to realise the dream of building a permanent theatre in Keswick to replace the Blue Box, and have ensured its continuing success since it opened 20 years ago. They hand over the reins to Charles Carter who will be Chair, supported by Kate McLaughlin-Flynn as Vice Chair. Charles commented: “Tonight was a real celebration of their commitment over the years to build the theatre and create such a treasured organisation. We are all immensely grateful to them for their hard work and dedication. I’m proud to be taking on the role of Chair, it may be a daunting task to follow in Vicky and Graham’s footsteps but Kate and I look forward to rising to the challenge and ensuring the future sustainability and success of the theatre.”
