The Barrington Magazine | Sept - Nov 2016

mAGAZINE | SEPT 2016 - NOV 2016

Memory Lane

Do you remember Princess Margaret coming to Ferndown to open The Barrington Centre?

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE BARRINGTON THEATRE from the Jam raises the roof

phoenix musical society 30 years on

Regular clubs and events at the Barrington theatre

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

4

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE AUTUMN EDITION

Hello and welcome to your edition of the Barrington Magazine.

In this issue we included articles from two of our longest associated regular groups, Phoenix Musical Society and Ferndown Drama Group.

17 REVIEW

There is also a review of the ‘From the Jam’ gig in May. The audience of 400 ‘almost lifted the roof off the theatre’. This was the best night I’ve ever had at the Barrington, so far!

fROm thE JAm

6

30 YEARs Of sERVING thE cOmmUNItY

18

fERNDOWN phOENIX mUsIcAL sOcIEtY

I’d like to take the opportunity of inviting you all on behalf of our current chairman Chris Allen to our 30th anniversary AGM on 29 September. The evening will start prompt at 7.30pm with a welcome drink and the formalities of the charity. Once that’s over the fabulous Ringwood & Burley Band will entertain us whilst you enjoy some lovely canapés provided from Sorrels of Wimborne. As AGMs go, this is going to be quite a lot of fun and it would be great to share it with you.

If you have any questions for either the chairman or myself then they need to be submitted in writing by 5pm on 15 September into the office or via email, manager@thebarrington.org. As per the constitution of the charity no questions will be taken from the floor on the night, only members can vote and present questions.

26

thE GREAt hEAth

As you will see in this issue we have some fantastic bands and some real major headline acts coming up which you’d expect to see at only the big theatres.

I hope to see you all out lending your support so we can bring in more acts next year.

CONTENTS SEPTEMBER 2016 - NOVEMBER 2016 WeLCoMe To doNNa Meet the new admin assistant at the Barrington Theatre

16.

WHaT’s oN aNd WHaT’s CoMiNg uP The gigs and shows on offer

10.

Have your ParTy aT THe BarriNgToN Let Andy from The Barrington Theatre help plan your next party

21.

JaNe eyre The latest show from Ferndown Drama

14.

reguLar eveNTs aT THe BarriNgToN Learn about clubs and events at The Barrington Theatre

22.

09.

EDItORIAL Barrington: Andy Bryant Pat Stirling

A 01202 894858 www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

m admin@barringtoncentre.co.uk

We reserve the right to edit submitted manuscripts for length, appropriateness, style and reader interest. Photographs submitted to us will be returned if you supply your details.

Work eXPerieNCe Read Bella’s first hand experience of The Barrington Theatre

DEsIGN/pRODUctION

ADVERtIsING

BRIGHTBOX DESIGNS & MAGS4DORSET: Ben Pulford Louis Pulford

MAGS4DORSET: Sam Brown

sam@mags4dorset.co.uk

If you are interested in helping out in anyway with the Barrington or the production of this magazine then I’d love to hear from you. We have lots of varied voluntary opportunities for anyone of any age or skill set. Thank you for reading and I hope to see you all soon.

Andy Bryant The Barrington Centre Ferndown BH22 9TH 01202 894858

A m4D: 01202 870270 BBD: 01202 233441 www.mags4dorset.co.uk www.brightboxdesigns.co.uk

m design@mags4dorset.co.uk

contact@brightboxdesigns.co.uk

The Barrington Magazine does not accept responsibility for the content of advertisements, promises made, or the quality or reliability of the services offered in the advertisements in this publication. All purchases made through this publication are done so entirely at your own risk. Information about a service does not imply recommendation.

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

5

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

The Barrington Theatre celebrates

30 years

of serving the community

By Liz Turner, mags4dorset

When she opened the Barrington Centre in July 1986, Princess Margaret was shown round with a cream horn in one hand and a cup in the other. Not quite the formality you’d expect from a royal visitor but perhaps her relaxed mood sums up why the building has been so successful

T

he Barrington epitomises everything that a community centre should be. Open to all from celebrities to local singers, from toddlers to ballroom dancers, the centre is now also home to the town council and is a base for the police. No airs and graces, just somewhere where everyone can feel at home and enjoy their leisure time.

And amazingly, after 30 years, some of the original members of Ferndown Community Centre are still active in running and using the facility.

Terry Holbert was the vice chairman of the steering committee in 1986 and will become the president of the general management committee next month.

She won East Dorset District Council’s Community Champion Award this year for her commitment to the Barrington.

She fondly remembers the day Princess Margaret opened the building.

“There were marksmen on the roof of Tesco and she flew in by helicopter. We waited outside to be presented to her and she was charming. We all liked her and she talked to everyone and found out all about the clubs meeting there.”

The Barrington was a lot smaller then but still boasted the theatre, meeting rooms, bar and café.

6

The centre has changed with the times, with an extension built in August 1996, adding a studio, conference room and meeting space, and is now known as the Barrington Theatre.

Some of the clubs have been at the Barrington since the start including Penny’s Patches, ballroom dancing, the art society, stamp club and Ferndown Drama Group.

Brass band and organ concerts were popular and local stage schools also tread the boards.

Ferndown Phoenix Musical Society was formed when the centre opened and is also celebrating its 30th anniversary with a production of Oliver! This September.

The Bachelors were the act that everyone wanted back in 1989, and they appeared several times, regularly selling out.

It’s all a far cry from the bands that appear today. Tribute bands are popular and big names still want to come. From The Jam smashed records recently selling out the theatre. Des O’Connor, The Three Degrees and children’s show are booked over the next few months. Brass bands are still regulars.

The Barrington acts as a cinema, a soft play centre, and 31 groups are linked to it covering arts and crafts, fitness and

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

dance. Ferndown Drama Group is still going strong.

Compared with the stalwarts, general manager Andy Bryant is a new boy.

He said: “When I started two years ago, there was 56% occupancy for the centre and now it is 85%. The building is open seven days a week from 6.30am-11pm and there really is something for everyone.”

The Barrington is still run by the Barrington Community Association and is supported financially by East Dorset District Council.

As for the future, Andy said: “I would like to see the centre become independent from the council and to turn it into a true

arts centre and contemporary music venue with music for every choice.”

The idea of creating a mezzanine floor in the concert hall is being looked at and the extension can takes the weight of a first floor.

Andy added: “We have a very positive team working here ready to secure the future of the Barrington.”

It seems that these 30 years are just the beginning of the story of the Barrington.

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

Welcome to Donna!

Donna is our new admin assistant and here’s what she says about herself

I

am married to Andrew.

We share our lives with three children, one is all grown up and two younger children are currently studying at local schools.

Upon leaving school myself, I entered into work via YTS into a commercial photographic studio in Bournemouth as a studio and dark-room technician.

In the days before we began our family I had a management role locally working for Sandersons Interiors. Prior to this, I had worked for ICI in the trade division supporting trade clients with interior specifications.

I have spent a few years enjoying being a mum, I ran a toddler group called Cheeky Monkeys.

In 2004 I began a new business calling it Paradox Photography,

I planned my business schedule fitting work around the upbringing of our children.

My husband and I were keen to parent our children without relying on external childcare.

Paradox Photography still operates today.

I consider myself to be a reasonably well known photographer covering local commercial projects and weddings. In the past I have worked with the Barrington as a photographer, covering The Voice of Ferndown for the past two years.

Now that my kids are older, I have decided to find other extra work challenges.

I am now extremely pleased to be part of the new Barrington team, I will endeavour to assist the management team and staff to achieve a positive continuation of success for the Barrington Centre.

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

9

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

Rooms with a venue Here is a handy reminder of the facilities The Barrington has to offer. The Centre has been providing community services for 30 years this year. There is also a reasonably priced café serving home-style food from 8.30am each day and special events can be catered for in style with our retained suppliers.

THE HALL has a daytime and a night-time persona - the day sees sequence and line dancing, ballroom, conferences, soft play and craft fairs to name but a few. There is a maple sprung floor so you can be as heavyfooted as you like.

For music and drama, the room is fully functioning with sound and lighting (complete with resident technicians) and an advanced performance stage.

The hall will seat 275 and accommodate 406 standing, so plenty of room for a crowd!

THE BAR has an association with Greene King and full pub facilities. It is open for shows and you can pre-order drinks for the show interval to save queuing. For an event, such as a coffee morning or a funeral breakfast, it will seat 30 to 40.

THE HAYES ROOM is particularly useful as it can be divided into two. It is often used as a dressing room for live acts as it has facilities and mirrors to accommodate the intricacies of ‘getting ready’. As a theatre-style set-up, it can seat 30 to 40. As a break-out room for the theatre or a special function, it can double as a bar and buffet with a horseshoe-style flow to keep things moving in and out.

THE STUDIO is the second room with a maple sprung floor for dancing and can accommodate up to 50 people.

Even if you aren’t attending an event, RAFFLES CAFE can offer you some decent coffee and good value food.

THE CONFERENCE ROOM is ideal for clubs and has full projection facilities on to the back wall. Seating up to 64 people theatre-style it can also be set up with groups of tables for up to 44 - ideal for discussion groups or pub-style quizzes.

Have your party with us

D

id you know that we can cater for any style of party or any event?

We have the ability to provide a full service ranging from a children's party using our soft play equipment to a four-course silver service wedding breakfast.

If you are looking for someone to take the stress away from organising your function then please contact Andy at the box office.

10

We can cater for up to 100 people for silver service and party night and finger buffet with a band or DJ for 200+ people. Greene King Brewery stocks our bar so we have a great range of beer on tap for all your guests to enjoy.

We will go to every length to provide you with a very special event, catering for all tastes and requirements no matter how outrageous. Andy is looking forward to hearing from you.

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

11

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

12

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

PLAY CHESS good for the brain, good for the company, good for you The ancient game of chess is over 13,000 years old and is still played and enjoyed by millions of players worldwide. The game has been recognised as an official sport by the International Olympics Committee.

It can be played from five year-olds to those aged over 90, and can provide mental activity and diversion for all.

Opportunities are there for playing the game on-line, by post and over the board.

Last year the Barrington launched its own chess club which has been meeting in the lounge bar every Wednesday evening from 7pm to closing time.

We welcome players of all strengths and

experience from learners to masters. Games are arranged as on the spot encounters and tournaments are organised for those who want a more competitive encounter.

Tuition and advice can be offered to players who have not played for years and would be players who would like to take it up.

We promise you that you can enjoy a pleasant friendly and enjoyable evening at a very low cost.

Membership of the Barrington will be required once you have become a regular member of the chess club.

Contact Douglas Lock on 01202 896984 or douglas21da@gmail.com or the community office 01202 894858.

RAFFLES CAFÉ

Raffles Café is one of Ferndown’s oldest and most loved cafés

N

estled inside the Barrington it provides lovely home cooked food and a great friendly service.

It opens its doors from 8.30am-4.30pm, Monday-Saturday. Raffles serves what is easily the biggest breakfast in town and with prices starting at just £3.95, it’s also one of the cheapest.

Did you know that Raffles is actually part of the Barrington and the money made from the café is then donated back to the Ferndown Community Association to help run the Barrington Centre?

Every time you buy a cup of coffee at only £1.50 or one of daily specials for £4.95 your money helps the Barrington to grow.

If you are having a special occasion why not let us provide catering for your event? We can provide a full range of services ranging from a finger buffet offering right through to a silver service four- course dinner.

If you’ve not tried us yet then you don’t know what you are missing. Why not come and try one of our regular monthly special offers?

Soft play

I had a look into a soft play class and I asked the mothers of the toddlers about the play sessions. They all gave me similar answers and told me about the good influence it has on them and their children’s life.

Soft play offers a fun, indoor playground for kids and refreshments for the parents and guardians.

One mum said, ‘I am chatting with other mums and I make new friends while my child has fun, it’s great!’

Everybody who wants more excitement in their life should definitely have a closer look at what the Barrington Theatre offers.

Bella, work experience student

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

13

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

From the Jam Review by Robin Hook

Tonight’s gig (for me), first and foremost means a new venue. I’m impressed – free parking and two minutes walk from the door

T

he Barrington Theatre (Ferndown) has that whole ‘school gym/local youth club’ look and feel to it. On those grounds alone I won’t dismiss it – far from it, they’ve only gone and booked one of the premier touring bands on the circuit.

Early arrivers get the chance to witness openers and local boys Power Thief. I’ve been tipped off they’re similar to The Strypes - on that recommendation alone I stick around. This youthful quartet produce a fine set of clangy indie/garage rock and waste no time in making their mark. A couple of originals are followed by their first cover, The Ramones ‘Rockaway Beach’. Jacob (lead) displays a competence above his tender years. The Strypes are one of three influences I see early on (Jake Bugg and Miles Kane) being the others. On this evidence, Power Thief are still finding their feet, but a gig this size won’t do them any harm. And an appreciative audience gives them decent applause and I look forward to their musical maturity.

Next up are Eyre (formerly Details Below). A less obvious moniker but one you won’t forget in a hurry. A female fronted indie band, Eyre produce a wall of sound early on with some strong, crisp hitting (Sam Pringle on drums) and a competent bassist in Matt Bradshaw. The vocals of Maria are a searing delight, although her softer musings remind me a little of Dolores O’Riordan of The Cranberries. After three or four originals we get a great cover of

14

‘Boy About Town’ becomes simply a prelude to a truly wild ‘When you’re Young’.

Russell is at pains to explain how nice it is to play a venue a little off the beaten track, rather than the big cities. Clearly it hasn’t put their army of fans off – tonight is a sell-out.

‘Molly’s Chambers’ by Kings Of Leon.

‘Saturday’s Kids’ is delivered with real The set is an equal mix of original gusto before Russell introduces new material and covers. They end on a single ‘Now the Time Has Come’. With highlight, giving an extended version decent exposure on BBC Radio 2 it of ‘Whole Lotta Love’, as noted by would appear most here are already one punter “a brave move in front familiar with the song. Another of a crowd of Mods”, but one that newbie ‘Pictures and Diamonds’ gets undoubtedly pays off. They too leave an equally good response. While it’s to great applause as the audience great to hear the classic Jam songs starts to swell to its 400 capacity. it’s refreshing to know the guys are And so to the headliners. still capable of Fresh from a TV writing good new appearance the Russell is at pains to material. previous morning Back to the explain how nice it is to Bruce (Foxton) and hits then. ‘That’s the guys arrive play a venue a little off Entertainment’ on stage; ready to sees this whole the beaten track, rather plug material from room join in while new LP ‘Smash than the big cities.

‘Liza Radley’ gets a The Clock’, and to welcome addition Clearly it hasn’t put take us once more to the set tonight down memory their army of fans off – (usually only used lane. Where better as a sound check tonight is a sell-out. to start then than song). ‘Start’ ‘Town Called follows and gets the crowd singing Malice’. Straight away a small pocket once more while Russell encourages of the audience are bouncing like the whole room to bounce, with an it’s 1982. If you’re a steadfast Jam energetic run through ‘Slow Down’. fan this is your dream set list. ‘To Be ‘Man In The Corner Shop’ allows us Someone’ soon follows, finding this all breathing space before set closer crowd in early good voice. ‘David ‘The Eton Rifles’ finds this crowd at its Watts’ gets a longer beginning than most energetic. It’s another big singusual while Russell Hastings (guitar/ along, which doesn’t disappoint. vox) encourages the “Oi’s” to the intro We are kept waiting for a good to ‘Pretty Green’ – he quite literally five minutes for the encore, fuelling has us eating out of the palms of his the speculation that a certain Mr hands as he smiles throughout.

Weller might appear onstage on their ‘The Butterfly Collector’ takes return. Rapturous clapping and foot things down a notch yet the more stamping and an anthem of ‘We Are energetic still keep on moving. ‘But the Mods’ brings the band back on.

I’m Different Now’ ups the ante With the Weller rumour quashed the somewhat before ‘Smithers Jones’ guys continue with their set. ‘Down allows Bruce to take centre stage.

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

In The Tube Station’ fuels the lunacy down the front as more moshers join the throng. ‘In The City’ follows and once again goes down a storm.

We know what’s coming – ‘Going Underground’ is their final tune of the night. It’s all too much for two punters who “sort things out amicably”, which is such a shame.

For me, this has been arguably the best From the Jam performance I have ever witnessed. A great vibe in the room, great sound and a band playing at their absolute peak. If I never see them again (pardon the pun) I’ll know I saw their best show ever. That however, is unlikely with their busy tour schedule covering the miles of Britain far and wide.

‘Smash The Clock’ deserves its place on the record shelves and this is a band who aren’t going away quietly – and long may that continue.

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

Whatʼs On Stage

AT THE BARRINGTON September 2016 4 SEPTEMBER

£25.00

Courtney Pine

9 SEPTEMBER

18 OCTOBER

Children’s Choir Competition EDDC Chairman

tBc

20 OCTOBER

Mitch Malloy European Tour

10 SEPTEMBER

Miles Hunt and Erica Knockalls, The Wonder Stuff £10.00

16 SEPTEMBER

Ringwood and Burley Band

£15.00

A tribute to Buddy Holly and Elvis Presley £10.00 Mick Ralphs Blues Band & John Verity Band £10.00

21-24 SEPTEMBER

£8.00 £12.00 £38.00 £10.00

Oliver kids: adults: Family: Concs:

30 OCTOBER

£7.00

November 2016

Burlesque evening EDDC Chairman

30 SEPTEMBER

1 OCTOBER

Judie Tzuke

5 NOVEMBER 5 NOVEMBER

Sinatra Spectacular £12.00 ABBA Tribute

£20.00

1 OCTOBER

Andrew Cannon Band £5.00

2 OCTOBER

12 NOVEMBER

Jive & Kicking

7 OCTOBER

19 NOVEMBER

Des O’Connor

£28.00

Eric Knowles Dancing With Jan

14 OCTOBER

The Three Degrees VIp £37.50 £25.00

£10.00 £6.00

25 NOVEMBER

The Beach Boys Band UK

13 OCTOBER

Tony Waller and his Prohibition Jazz £10.00

...

Chamber Of Commerce Skittles night £7.00

18 NOVEMBER

8 OCTOBER

£17.50

17 NOVEMBER

Bournemouth Jazz Orchestra £10.00 Chamber of Commerce Race Night contact fcOc

£5.00

6 NOVEMBER

11 NOVEMBER

£6.00

Southern Union Choir

4 NOVEMBER

Derek Acorah Medium £18.00

Andrew Cannon Band

October 2016

Sleeping Beauty Panto

The Producers

John Coghlan’s Quo £15.00

£5.00

4 DECEMBER

3 NOVEMBER

29 SEPTEMBER

Will McNicol and Luke Selby

£10.00

December 2016

9 DECEMBER

25 SEPTEMBER

FCA AGM, Ringwood & Burley Band free

Beer & Blues Festival

8 DECEMBER

Jimmy Jemain is Cliff Richard and the Knight Shadows £16.50

Stevie Nimmo Band £10.00

16

26 NOVEMBER

tBc £12.00

10 DECEMBER

tBc

17 DECEMBER

The Original Jukebox Heroes

£15.00

17 DECEMBER

Andrew Cannon Band

£5.00

23 DECEMBER

Christmas Together Lunch

2017 January 2017

free

28 JANUARY

Jethro Tull’s Martin Barre

February 2016 10 FEBRUARY

Bourne2Sing

11 FEBRUARY

Valentine’s Party £15.00

17 FEBRUARY

New Jersey Boys

All shows start at 7:30pm unless stated. Doors open half an hour before. For full listings for all our events and to purchase online tickets please visit our website. www.barringtoncentre.co.uk.

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

REGULAR EVENTS AT THE BARRINGTON CENTRE MONDAY

CONTACT

TEL. NO.

01425 472146 01202 877468 01202 871495 01202 578048 01202 894858 07923 873400

Ballroom dance - 2:30pm adagio - Children’s dance Classes - 2:00pm Ferndown art society - 7:30pm (M) Labour Party (Ferndown) - 7:30pm (M) Ferndown Historical society - 7:30pm (M) Ferndown Camera Club - 7:30pm (F)

THURSDAY

CONTACT

TEL. NO.

TUESDAY

CONTACT

TEL. NO.

FRIDAY

CONTACT

TEL. NO.

soft play 4 Tots - 10:00am-12pm Bits & Bytes Computer Club - 2:30pm (F) Meditation - 4pm, 5:30pm, 7pm Ferndown speakers - 7:30pm (F) social dance - 8:00pm (M)

Barrington Office Neil Barton Martin Handy Shirley Thompson Marna Williams

01202 894858 01202 861077 07864 029868 01425 480631 01202 871495

Hula & Toner, salsaCise, Tai chi soft play 4 Tots - 10:00am-12pm yoga - 9:30am & 10:45pm Coffee Club - 10:00am sequence dance - 2:00pm

Leisure Centre Barrington Office Natalie Smit-Ash John Little Barrington Office

01202 877468 01202 894858 01202 944429 01202 980839 01202 894858

yoga - 10:00 am - 11:30pm Body Combat, Zumba, Piyo sequence dance - 2:30pm Ferndown drama group - 7:45pm Free Cinema - 2:15pm Wessex Jitsu Club

Jane Handscombe Leisure Centre Marna Williams Chris Allen Box Office Fiona Richardson

Marna Williams Rebecca Godber Mrs S Gomm Gail Cropper Ken Cook Bill Stevens

01202 871495 01202 831394 01202 573050 01202 893779 01202 890084 01202 820719

WEDNESDAY

CONTACT

TEL. NO.

SATURDAY

CONTACT

TEL. NO.

Clarity Hearing - 9:30am Ferndown art society - 9:30am Penny's Patchers - 9:30am alzheimers society - 1:30pm (F) strollers - 2:00pm (M) National Trust e d assoc - 7:30pm (M) absolutely W.i - 7:30pm (M) Ferndown drama group - 7:45pm French Circle - 7:30pm (M) Ferndown Wine society - 7:30pm (M) Nuline Line dance - 1:30pm Chess Club

Heather Cowell Mrs S Gomm Glenda Harford Jo Malyon Alan Welfare Janet Matthews Linda Barber Chris Allen Marion Lock Paul Fearnley Tina Summerfield Douglas Lock

01202 478881 01202 573050 01202 694847 01202 716393 01202 870644 01202 855001 01202 861750 01202 578048 01202 896984 01202 707128 01258 452643 01202 896984

New Horizons Club - 10:00am u3a (university of the Third age) (during Term Times)

Rita Stubbs John Mullett

01202 280871 01202 874581

f = Fortnightly | m = Monthly

For additional information of regular event please contact the box office.

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

17

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

Ferndown Phoenix Musical Society:

30 Years On and Still Rising!

Terry Holbert is the current vice-president of the Ferndown Community Association (FCA) and chairlady of the Ferndown Phoenix Musical Musical Society

P

hoenix is an amateur group of very diversely talented people who have dedicated themselves to producing some amazing shows and performances for the entertainment of the local community.

Terry says, “Little did I know that when my daughter came home from school in 1985, after having been asked if she would like to be a royal child in a new production of ‘The King And I’, that 30 years later I would still be so involved with the centre that hosted it.

“I originally met Jim Barrington (first chairman of the FCA) during my working career in the Midlands. Through this association, and when we moved into the Ferndown area, Jim asked me to join

Owner Robin Ayling with ‘Eddie’ playing Bullseye

in and become his vicechair on the first General Management Committee (GMC).

“At this time the Centre was called the Ferndown Community Centre, and it wasn’t until an AGM in 2011, that the committee decided to change the name to respect the work of the first chairman by calling it the Barrington Centre.

“This name has been slightly altered to fit the new branding into the Barrington Theatre since Andy’s introduction and I am sure that Jim would of approved.”

Phoenix Musical Society was formed originally by the current GMC member Margaret Coltman and over the years there have been five chairmen, three presidents, four musical directors, lots of stage directors, a large healthy company of all ages ranging from 4-80, and several real animals – some controlled by stage hands!

The list of all the society’s productions will be included in the souvenir programme of Oliver!, celebrating Phoenix Musical Society’s 30 years this September.

Oliver! starts on 22nd with shows on 23rd and 24th. These will be on the stage at The Barrington Theatre, please check the society’s or the Barrington’s website

for full details, or call the box office on 01202 894858.

“Over the years, we have seen false teeth falling out, scenery falling down, hired scenery far too big for the stage, leading performers losing their voices, mystery illnesses, and several broken bones – and that’s just between myself and my partner,” remembers Terry. “These are but some of the disasters that have befallen us over the years. As the name suggests, Phoenix is resilient and will always rise, whatever is thrown at us.

“We are a small but very proud provincial musical theatre company, which, like many, survives by the skin of our teeth, both financially and socially.

Sometimes we have to pay two years in advance just to secure the licence for the show.

“We are very grateful to everyone who supports us and especially for the Ferndown Town Council Grants Committee, which without a doubt, has kept the shows going on.

“Do come and join us if you feel you would like to be part of a very happy social group.

“Here’s to the next 30 years.

“Break a leg…”

Bullseye

Rehearsing for Oliver!

18

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

20

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

Andrew Cannon Band social dances

Summer menu for Absolutely WI In June, over 50 ladies from Absolutely WI, Ferndown, enjoyed a summer lunch at Bentley’s Restaurant at Dudsbury Golf Club. A free raffle was held with several ladies winning prizes.

Later in the month, an afternoon tea took place at the Guide hut in Ferndown. Sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream and a large selection of

cakes were served to the 24 ladies who attended.

Absolutely WI runs lots of events for their members including quizzes, skittles, a lunch club, a dinner club and more. The committee welcomes new ideas for events from members to enhance the social activities calendar. www.absolutelywi.co.uk

The Barrington is now hosting a series of monthly Saturday afternoon social dances, which are proving very popular.

Guests are encouraged to either dance, or just listen – and even sing along when they know the songs. The music starts at 2.30pm for approximately two hours. Entrance is only £5 – pay on the door or in advance from the box office. Parking is free to shoppers in Tesco and Raffles is always open for refreshments.

The Andrew Cannon Band is a 5-piece arrangement, specializing in swing, jazz, easy listening and country. Stevie Gee, the female vocalist, is supported by two male singers providing the flexibility to play most songs. There really is something for everyone; requests can be taken in advance.

If you like your music swinging and sincere, with plenty of variety, book one of these dates with the Andrew Cannon Band.

3 September 1 October 5 November 17 December Dates for 2017 will be available soon.

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

21

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

Ferndown Drama presents Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte 26th - 29th October at 7.45pm

22

Brocklehurst, a cruel, hypocritical and abusive man. Brocklehurst preaches a doctrine of poverty and privation to his students while using the school’s funds to provide a wealthy and opulent lifestyle for his own family. At Lowood, Jane befriends a young girl named Helen Burns, whose strong, martyr like attitude toward the school’s miseries is both helpful and displeasing to Jane. A massive typhus epidemic sweeps Lowood and Helen dies of consumption. The epidemic also results in the departure of Mr Brocklehurst by attracting attention to the insalubrious conditions at Lowood. After a group of more sympathetic gentlemen takes Brocklehurst’s place, Jane’s life improves dramatically. She spends eight more years at Lowood, six as a student and two as a teacher.

After teaching for two years, Jane yearns for new experiences.

She accepts a governess position at

“

Once at the Lowood School, Jane finds that her life is far from idyllic. The school’s headmaster is Mr Brocklehurst, a cruel, hypocritical and abusive man. Brocklehurst preaches a doctrine of poverty and privation to his students while using the school’s funds to provide a wealthy and opulent lifestyle for his own family.

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

“

S

o this is the story that is not in the play version – as they say in all dramas, previously in Jane Eyre...

Jane is a young orphan being raised by Mrs Reed, her cruel, wealthy aunt. A servant named Bessie provides Jane with some of the few kindnesses she receives, telling her stories and singing songs to her. One day, as punishment for fighting with her bullying cousin John Reed, Jane’s aunt imprisons Jane in the red-room, the room in which Jane’s Uncle Reed died. While locked in, Jane, believing that she sees her uncle’s ghost, screams and faints. She wakes to find herself in the care of Bessie and the kindly apothecary Mr Lloyd, who suggests to Mrs Reed that Jane be sent away to school. To Jane’s delight, Mrs Reed concurs.

Once at the Lowood School, Jane finds that her life is far from idyllic. The school’s headmaster is Mr

Ferndown Drama is delighted to present Jane Eyre at the Barrington Theatre. For those who know the book well, you’ll know that if we presented it in full you’d be in for a very long evening, so we are presenting an adaptation by Charles Vance. We are told by Bronte fans that it is a faithful adaptation of the book but clearly heavy edited to get you home before midnight a manor called Thornfield, to teach a lively French girl named Adèle.

This is where our story starts with Jane’s arrival at Thornfield Hall and her first meeting with Mr Rochester.

Kevin Dicker will be directing our first play of our 51st season. Our 50th year saw us doing ‘Happiest Days of Your Life’, ‘Proscenophobia’ and ‘Agatha Crusty and the Village Hall Murders’.

Performances will be at 7.45pm. Tickets are £8.50 (seating is unreserved) from 01202 894858.

A ticket request can be made via www.ferndowndrama.org or you can buy them on the door.

We always welcome new members and if you want to become a patron then it’s like having a season ticket. You get to see the three plays of the year cheaper than if you’d brought individual tickets. Just contact us on the website.

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

23

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

Barton's IT Services Limited

PC Support for Home & Business Address: 33 Award Road, Stapehill, Wimborne, Dorset BH21 7NT Email: info@BartonsIT.co.uk Company Number: 6683832 Phone: 01202 861077 Mob: 07868 170971 Web: www.BartonsIT.co.uk I have over 40 years’ experience in the IT industry and use that to help people get the best out of their computer equipment.

I have been working with the Barrington Theatre for several years now and provide support for their computers and help them to get the technology to take the strain.

They have recently moved into the 21st century with their email being provided by the cloud service Microsoft Outlook 365. This has resolved a lot of concerns about storing emails and sharing data as well as making access to email much easier via phones and tablets.

Andy Bryant, the general manager at the Barrington, is keen to improve facilities there and we have been talking about building wide wireless provision. At the moment wireless can be generated in any of the rooms using a plug in adapter (transmitting the network signal over the power lines), this ‘point’ solution works well but we expect to create an environment where

the wireless is automatically available throughout the whole building. The wireless facility at the Barrington is free to anyone who wants to connect to it and there is no password. The speeds are extremely good following the recent upgrade to fibre, so if you drop into the Barrington you can have a coffee and catch up on your emails.

I also advise on security and all of the PCs have recently been upgraded to use ESET which is a locally developed anti-malware programme which is well regarded throughout the industry as one of the best.

Its small size means that the computers spend time doing what they should be doing rather than dedicating everything to checking for malware.

I run a computer club at the Barrington called Bits & Bytes; you can find out about it on my website (www.bartonsit.co.uk).

This is a question and answer type group where people bring along questions about how to do things and the group tries to work out a solution. We cover

everything from the simple what is window snapping? to the more complex - why would upgrading to Windows 10 stop my NAS working? We welcome anyone to come along with a new subject to discuss. The club meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month, the first meeting usually focuses on a subject and I try to prepare a talk on the area in question.

The second meeting is a general open session and anyone can ask anything. The subjects we have been focusing on recently have been ‘stop-motion’ film development, Wordpress and how (and why) to create system images. I recommend people have a notepad next to their computer and make a note of issues they have, then bring the list along to the club. My experience, combined with other people in the club, means we can usually come up with a solution to most problems.

Neil Barton

Barton’s It Services Limited

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

‘My work experience’

I

am a student of Ferndown Upper School and I decided that I want to do my work experience at the Barrington Theatre. The moment I started there I felt a warm and loving atmosphere. After I had been shown around, I couldn’t believe how many modern shows and classes it offers. From a free cinema and awesome performances to soft play for tots, Zumba, an art society and lots more, the Barrington Theatre brings Ferndown to life. It gives people of all ages the opportunity to socialise and to achieve their hobbies.

Bella

Work experience student

25

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

The Great Heath Sometimes we can take precious things for granted until we are threatened with losing them. September is the perfect time of year to stop for a moment and take notice of our heathlands, the seemingly permanent landscape that surrounds us and is at its most colourful at this time of year With heathland, all is not as it seems.

It is not permanent and it does not surround us any more. The historic Great Heath did truly surround the people of south-east Dorset around 200 hundred years ago but over 80% has been lost since 1800. It has been formed by nature and man living in harmony over thousands of years but, if left to itself, would revert to pine and birch woodland. That would mean the end of the rare wildlife that has made heathland its home.

Ferndown Common was the site of the very first event in an exciting project to protect heathland for wildlife and people across south-east Dorset. A walk for local people to discover its rare reptiles heralded a unique partnership of conservation organisations, local authorities and the community, which has joined forces to put the ‘great’ back into what was once The Great Heath stretching between The New Forest and The Purbecks.

The Great Heath Living Landscape includes 1500 acres of land acquired

26

from The Canford Estate. Inspired by this, the partners set their sights on expanding the project to restore and revitalise the entire Great Heath area from Christchurch to Poole Harbour and northwards to Wimborne and Verwood. The aim is to create a Living Landscape, where people benefit from nature and nature thrives because people care about it. The total cost of the purchases and the three-year project is £4.7 million, with £2.7 million coming from the Heritage Lottery and the remainder from the partners and public appeal.

The sites that have been bought include land at Hampreston and High Mead Lane, Award Road, Ferndown Common, Delph Wood, Arrowsmith Copse, Dunyeats Hill, Corfe Lodge Road, Upton Heath, Beacon Hill, Happy Bottom, Ashington Meadow, Barrow Hill, Wimborne Road, Rushcombe Bottom, Parley Common, Tricketts Cross, Lytchett Bay and Holes Bay. The partners are Dorset Wildlife Trust, the Erica Trust, Poole Harbour Commissioners, Borough of Poole, Dorset County Council Countryside Service, Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust, Bournemouth Borough Council and Christchurch and East Dorset District Councils.

To help people to find out about the precious remaining heaths, new heathland information boards have

been created, with the first ones now installed at Ferndown and Parley Commons. We hope that they will encourage people to enjoy the amazing and vulnerable wildlife that lives on our heaths and play a part in protecting these special places.

They also feature new links to public bridleways that aim to balance horse and mountain bike riding enjoyment while protecting sensitive areas of the heath.

To get involved or find out more, visit thegreatheath.org.

Nicky Hoar Learning and Interpretation Officer, The Great Heath The Great Heath Living Landscape working in partnership for wildlife and people in Dorset

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

27

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

Coach Trips At the Barrington

W

ith 2017 very quickly approaching we are looking at releasing a whole new range of around 40 fantastic day tours and short breaks with our very own Barrington Coach Tours. Until recently the Barrington was working closely with Select Coaches and you would have seen the Select Coaches Logo around the centre. This is no longer the case, Select Coaches owner Mrs David Hale has decided, for personal reasons, to take a step away from the Barrington and from our

coaches in general. We would like to thank him for his hard work and helping us to provide some really good trips. I would like to reassure everyone who has already booked tickets for other trips that we will still be providing this service and in fact making it better with more destinations and some really special plans for next year. Onboard you will now be looked after by John Dickson and Harry Cobb, both of which are really looking forward to welcoming you. We are always open to suggestions too, if you can think of any interesting trips please feel free to just let us know.

Dates Information

Dates Information

3 January 2017 London January Sales 5 January 2017 Brighton Holiday on Ice 10 January 2017 TBC 17 January 2017 London Museums & Galleries 21 January 2017 Houses of Parliament 24 January 2017 Warner Bros Studio Tour 31 January 2017 RAF Museum , London 7 February 2017 Watercress Line 12 February 2017 Waldorf Hotel 15 February 2017 Knitting & Stitching Show, Olympia 21 February 2017 Buckingham Palace 28 February 2017 Basingstoke Festival Place Shopping

and Milestone Living History Museum 7 March 2017 TBC 14 March 2017 Cheltenham Horseracing Festival 21 March 2017 TBC 28 March 2017 Ideal Homes Exhibition Olympia 4 April 2017 Oxford & Blenheim 11 April 2017 TBC 18 April 2017 Imperial War Museum , London 25 April 2017 Dorchester, Weymouth & Portland 2 May 2017 Swanage Rail & Corfe Castle 9 May 2017 Bletchley Park 16 May 2017 Bath 25 May 2017 Chelsea Flower Show 30 May 2017 Minehead / Bishops Lynard Rail 6 June 2017 Exbury Gardens 8 June 2017 Wareham River Cruise 15 June 2017 Dartmouth to Totnes Ferry 20 June 2017 Royal Ascot Ladies Day 22 June 2017 Kew Gardens , London

27 June 2017 Isle of Wight Circular Tour 3/5 July 2017 Guernsey Ferry Tour 11 July 2017 Kennet & Avon 17/19 July 2017 Amsterdam 27 July 2017 London Eye & Madame Tussauds 2 August 2017 Windsor Castle & River Cruise 8 August 2017 Hampton Court Palace & Flower Show 15 August 2017 Wells & Cheddar Gorge 22 August 2017 Bristol 25/27 August 2017 Edinburgh Tattoo, Settle Rail & York 31 August 2017 London Greenwich, 5 September 2017 Bletchley Park 11/13 September 2017 St Malo Ferry Trip 19 September 2017 Cardiff 26 September 2017 Concorde & Brooklands 3 October 2017 Powderham Castle , Ex River Cruise & Train 10 October 2017 New Forest Autumn Leaves Tour & Lunch 16/19 October 2017 Eden Project , St Austell & Charlestown 24 October 2017 Seaton Rail, Beer & Lyme Regis 31 October 2017 TBC 7 November 2017 Longleat 14 November 2017 Clark's Village, Street 21 November 2017 Shepton Mallet Carnival 28 November 2017 Bath Christmas Market 5 December 2017 Winchester Christmas Market 12 December 2017 London Christmas Lights 19 December 2017 Turkey & Tinsel Christmas Carvery

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk

29

THE BARRINGTON MAGAZINE | ISSUE FOUR

Why not join us?

Joining the Barrington is quick and easy - just pop in and visit the main office. We’ll give you a simple form, take your details and put you on our members’ list.

You don’t have to be local; people come from a range of postcodes and many come from a distance to enjoy our facilities.

But, of course, the Barrington is open to all so drop in and see us whenever you like whether or not you decide to join.

A single annual membership is just £10 and double is £15. Prices have been held for 2016.

There are a number of benefits to being a Friend of the Barrington, which you can access by showing your membership card. These include: • • • • • •

10% off your coffee in Raffles Café 10% off your drink purchased in the theatre bar 10% off regular room hire 10% off theatre tickets Enrolment in the theatre ticket lottery A quarterly copy of The Barrington Magazine listing events and activities with local news.

You will also be entitled to join the 100+ club. This is just £12 for 12 monthly draws, each with a chance to win a £50 jackpot. The draw takes place at The Barrington Centre on the last Friday every month.

Watch out for more offers in 2016!

30

www.barringtoncentre.co.uk