May I take this opportunity to extend a special welcome to our two newcomers, Rupert Hallam and Isabelle James.’ Giles Longfellow paused long enough for the cast to recognize their new stars, and sensing that there was not going to be a round of applause forthcoming, started one himself. He then continued, ‘It is no secret that this production of Hamlet is my pet project, and one I have dreamed of creating for a long time. But I also hope that you, the cast and crew, will become as enthused as I am and realize the importance of the production’s success. Not just for me or you, but for the future of Crewe Theatre. You see, I want this theatre to be firmly on the map as an important contributor to the arts in the UK. I am hoping to take this production to the West End eventually, and with luck, it will be the start of many such transfers and collaborations with different producers. Thanks to Lord Graham and his enormous generosity, we have been able to get the ball rolling with Hamlet – and may this be just the beginning of a new golden age for this theatre.’ Giles paused again, this time to compose himself.
