Falkirk's Tryst Theatre were crowned British drama champions
at the weekend.
The team fought off challenges from the top English,
Welsh and Northern Irish teams to wlift the coveted
Howard de Walden Trophy in Swindon's Wyvern Theatre
on Saturday night.
The cast of Brian Paterson, Craig Murray and Alan Clark
performed act one of Art by Yasmina
Reza.
Adjudicator Mike Tilbury praised Tryst's performance
for its polish and professionalism and said, "This
was acting of the highest standard - slick, comedic
and highly enteraining."
Supporting the onstage team were stage managers Jimmy
Cairns and Peter Tripney, assistant stage managers Carol
Clark, Carol Allan, Kareen Cairns, Lorna Herd and Karen
Paterson, with Jim Allan on lighting, David Allan on
sound and Brian Tripney on props and continuity.
Before reaching the finals, the team had already won
through the Falkirk District and Eastern Divisional
finals of the Scottish Community Drama Association's
one act play competition, before competing in the Scottish
finals at Eden Court Theatre.
Director Alan Clark said, "This is my proudest
moment since joining Tryst. We are absolutely delighted
to win the British title and put Falkirk on the map."
Prior to heading to the finals, Tryst had to raise
£1500 to cover their transport and accommodation
costs.
Alan added, "We are very grateful to everyone
who gave us financial assistance, especially the BenRiach
Distillery Company who have been brilliant."
Tryst last won the British finals back in 1979 with
Equus by Peter Schaffer, a production
directed by the late Bill Graham. They were also finalists
in 2004 with Travels With My Aunt.
Tryst chairman Frank Murray added, "After a gap
of 32 years, it's great to have the Howard de Walden
trophy in Tryst's custody for the next twelve months.
"The theatrical journey since the first performance
of Art in May last year has been a
tremendous team effort, with three talented actors supported
by a very capable technical team.
"The atmosphere created by our Swindon hosts was
excellent and it was encouraging to have the travelling
support of members from other Scottish Community Drama
Association clubs."
Tryst now take a well earned break for the summer.
Details of our autumn production will be announced in
due course.
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