3 minute read
Local Heroes
community Local Heroes...
Pauline Armour
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Pauline was nominated by Keith Jeremiah, Chairman of the Bromley Little Theatre (BLT - a thriving
community theatre in the heart of Bromley that is run by volunteers). Pauline is the theatre’s Artistic Director.
Keith said: "Pauline works tirelessly and passionately to uphold the incredibly high artistic standards of the theatre and the 18 shows we put on every year. She is often found on stage or directing at BLT or supporting our thriving Youth group. In the wider community, Pauline also co-founded the Bromley Community Arts Theatre, bringing people together from many different societies and organisations to bring back live performances to the borough following the pandemic. She is enthusiastic, well-loved and has the incredible skill of bringing people together and creating shows of professional standards."
Hey Pauline - how did you feel about your ‘Local Hero’ nomination?
Surprised really! I think Keith will have nominated me because of what I did during Covid. I was determined to keep the theatre going. I organised remote events, rehearsals, and readings. Then when it was allowed, we met in small groups. It was so important to keep everyone connected.
How did you become involved in BLT?
I first joined back in the 80s as an actor and then a director. Then I moved up north for several years where I worked in education in Behavioural Support Services. I came back to the area in 2005 and of course got back in touch with Bromley Little Theatre. I directed a play – The Duchess of Malfi and gradually got more involved. I took on the role of Artistic Director in 2009 which involves planning the season, problem solving and quality control. We pride ourselves on the standard of our performances – it’s something I’m very proud of.
What is it about theatre?
I’ve always been involved with theatre and it’s so important. It changes people’s lives. Putting yourself in other peoples’ shoes makes people more tolerant as well as giving them confidence. Theatre is good for mental health and can be a lifeline in hard times; we know that from experience. We have a youth theatre that I run with Jessica-Ann Jenner, which we kept going on Zoom through Covid. It can really help people through difficult times, especially young people. Plus, the theatre is educational; in my opinion a trip to the theatre should be a good night out that educates, inspires and entertains.
What does community mean to you?
Community and connection is everything. Covid proved it. Community is how we relate to people, how we help and support them. At Bromley Little Theatre, we connect people from across the area in all that we do. We also work with four other community organisations, Bishop Justus
School, CASPA, JustBe and Magpie Dance as well as other charities. We’re also happy to loan costumes and props to other amateur dramatic associations on a reciprocal basis. 14 Life in... Orpington September 2022
What is a typical day like?
It’s more like a typical week. On different evenings I’ll have a rehearsal, a meeting, a performance or a reading. I also run some sessions for the University of the Third Age (U3A). I’m definitely not a morning person! I start the day at lunchtime and go to bed very late. Admin happens in the afternoons. On a Saturday I like to go to the theatre as an audience member.
What does the future hold for you?
I can’t imagine not doing this. I definitely want to rebuild the audience numbers here which have not reached pre-Covid levels yet. Maybe I’ll do more acting. I’ll keep going until I find myself not wanting to go to rehearsal!
How can people get involved with Bromley Little Theatre?
We’re always looking for new volunteers and actors, and of course people to come and see the shows. We’ve been here since the 1930s but for some reason are Bromley’s best kept secret. We want to change that! Anyone interested can visit bromleylittletheatre.org or email me: artistic@ bromleylittletheatre.org. We’re very welcoming and where else can you see a show in a venue with a licensed bar for £10-14?
