The Old Nick Theatre

Several landmark performances were produced: in 1970 the company presented "THE CRUCIBLE" in Gainsborough's medieval Old Hall as part of the Mayflower Celebrations; in 1978, their first in-the-round performance, "UNCLE VANYA", was presented in the Town Hall; and in 1979 the company acquired the town's old police station and magistrates court, a grade II listed building in the heart of Gainsborough. GTC Patron Douglas Parkinson leased the venue to the company for a nominal rent, and they transformed the premises to create a Bar, Coffee Room, Costume Props stores and a unique 55-seater theatre-in-the-round where the courtroom had been. The newly rechristened OLD NICK THEATRE opened to the public in 1980 with "DEAR BRUTUS". Douglas Parkinson became the company's first Honorary President, enjoying the results of his generosity until he died in 1993, paying GTC the ultimate compliment by leaving them the Old Nick building in his will. Working to produce at least four shows each year, the company's reputation continued to grow, not only at the Old Nick but through their occasional forays into other town venues with pantomimes and musicals, and their regular appearances at community events. In 1992, they were awarded an unprecedented 5 awards, including Best Play, for their rock and roll version of Shakespeare's "A MIDSUMMER NIGHTS DREAM" at the Skegness Drama Festival (pictured above). The following year, they repeated this success with their original mystery play "CHRIST MASS". That production was selected for the National All-Winners Drama Festival, one of just four plays chosen from companies throughout Great Britain, and GTC scooped the Adjudicator's Award. GAINSBOROUGH THEATRE COMPANY & MIRROR IMAGE The new millennium saw another name change, to the GAINSBOROUGH THEATRE COMPANY, and the formation of an offshoot group. Responding to the increasing number of young people interested in joining, GTC set up the MIRROR IMAGE YOUTH THEATRE. Run by its own senior members and supported by the parent company, Mirror Image have produced several full length shows and seasonal works, also providing actors and backstage personnel for GTC shows and events. Also in 2000, the Old Nick Theatre, was featured in Yorkshire Televisions Calendar programme, as part of their series on unusual theatre venues in the region. Presenter Ian Clayton enjoyed an afternoon exploring the building and watching extracts from the latest production "SHIRLEY VALENTINE". In 2005, the Company celebrated 25 years at their unique venue with a new production of their first Old Nick show "DEAR BRUTUS", attended by past members and local dignitaries. It also became part of the towns successful Ghost Walks programme.