THE MITCH AT 60

This documentary charts the history of the “Mitch” from the wartime appeal for a memorial to Reginald Mitchell through to its opening in 1957 and on through 60 years of plays, shows and festivals - celebrated by many societies and individuals closely linked to the Mitch. The famous Spitfire pilot Douglas Bader's speech is included when he officially opened the building in 1957. There are lots of pictures and reminiscences to enjoy, and we conclude with a photo-montage of the work done to regenerate the building into The Mitchell Arts Centre.

This documentary is a non-stop timeline charting the 45 minutes prior to curtain-up on a typical performance of a play at the Mitch - presented by Newcastle Players. Four cameras - running continuously - show us all the activity backstage and front of house. All four films are on screen throughout, and we listen in to the various scenes in turn - FOH, backstage, male dressing room and female dressing room. Finally we follow all participants to their positions for curtain-up. This is a 20-minute version of the full video and gives a real insight into what it took to prepare for a typical amateur performance before the refurbishment.