Hundreds of theatre lovers are to be reunited with personalised plaques after more than 25 years of supporting Darlington Civic Theatre.
In 1990/91 Darlington Civic Theatre introduced a ‘sponsor a seat’ programme where patrons could name a seat to show their support for the theatre and have a personalised plaque attached to a particular seat.
Now, 25 years on, Darlington Civic Theatre is keen to reunite these plaques with their owners. As well as many local theatre-lovers, some famous names have also sponsored seats in the past including Ken Dodd, Tom Jones, Cameron Mackintosh, actress Sylvia Syms and Tommy Cooper. Many local businesses and associations got involved too including Cummins Engine Ltd, The Northern Echo, Elm Ridge Garden Centre and Darlington Rotary Club.
Heather Walkington, Director of Fundraising and Development at Darlington Civic Theatre told us “It’s wonderful to have the opportunity to reunite people with their plaques. Many were dedicated to friends and family and their support made the 900 for the 90’s campaign possible. With a large restoration on the horizon we felt the time was right to re-unite people with their own part of the theatre”.
Over 300 brass plaques in total were produced. A comprehensive list of names has been drawn up and if you were one of the supporters back in 1990/91 and would like to be reunited with your plaque or collect it on behalf of a family member or business, please email CivicTheatrePlaques@darlington.gov.uk with your name, address and contact details or call Heather Walkington on 01325 406104
