Theatre producer Richard Jordan tells his Norwich story

pic courtesy EDP

Whenever I come home to Norwich one of the first places I always visit is the Theatre Royal. For me it is a building filled with happy memories and I owe it my career. Growing up in Norwich in the early eighties, Saturday afternoons were spent sneaking into the Theatre Royal auditorium to watch that week’s matinee and it became my classroom, equipping me with a theatre knowledge that I draw on today.

Looking back, I realise the value of the different productions and actors that I could see on its stage. But it was also the atmosphere of the place which made me feel alive and presented a world of possibilities. I quickly learned that in life there is nothing more exciting than to chase a dream, whatever that may be. However, in theatre, like any profession, it is important to remember that you need to know where you came from to know how to get back. Coming home to Norwich reminds me always of this, and sitting in the Theatre Royal's beautiful new auditorium, or experiencing the contagious energy found a bit further up Theatre Street at The Garage, I honestly believe should be provided on prescription. I am grateful to have them play an important part in my life, alongside bringing my own shows to Norwich which has always been a very rewarding experience.

Now Norwich, in its bid to be the UK’s City of Culture, has the unique chance to celebrate the arts and talent found in our city with both the UK and the rest of the world. Good theatre comes down to four main skills: putting on good work; a clear business understanding; collaboration and team work; and most important of all, a large dollop of optimism. Those are also qualities which epitomise the spirit of a city of
culture that I know are alive and kicking in Norwich. Because whenever I feel down about the future of theatre, I think about my visits to Theatre Royal and the Garage. Then I have a look at my old Theatre Royal Norwich programmes and it always cheers me up.

Winning UK City of Culture would provide Norwich with the vital opportunity to lay and seal the foundation that secures both its long-term future creation and presenting of the arts, alongside its ownartists’ development.

I hope you will collaborate with me and many others in supporting Norwich's bid as the UK City of Culture and celebrate the arts and artists from Norwich and those who bring their work to share with us in our fine city.

Richard Jordan - Theatre Producer