Not many people know this small theatre exists as it is tucked away in a side street. However, the patrons, actors and audiences look forward to the next, lively performances.
Watercolour painting by Janice Lyall
Old Father Time by Janice Lyall
The sands of time drop and Old Father Time marks the hours by chiming the bell. This is followed by more chiming from friends from the 4 quarters of Britain.
Watercolour painting by Janice Lyall
Eastgate Shopping Centre
Fortunately, parts of the façade of the old market were retained and re-used as the entrance to Eastgate Shopping Centre. Today's citizens look back at old photographs and yearn for more facades of the old buildings which were lost in that round of 'modernisation'.
St James' Tower
The adjoining church was removed many decades ago and all that remains is St James Tower. At one time it was possible to walk through it and admire the oak doors and stained glass, until it became enclosed as the Tourist Information Centre for a while. Later it was transformed/restored yet again by the Civic Trust. Whether its the sound boards, facilities or technology, but internally, the sense of history & space has altered. What will be it's next phase?
Watercolour painting by Janice Lyall
Gloucester Guildhall Original Entrance
The original entrance is still visible and was fitting to the impressive building. Many people now pass the existing entrance to the side and never climb the stairs to see the fabulous rooms inside, or enjoy many of the vibrant functions and activities that take place throughout the days and evenings. Pop inside and discover the panelled walls of the cinema.
Watercolour sketch by Janice Lyall
Gloucester Guildhall Looking Up
Who were the stone masons that carved the cherubs that constantly watch the citizens carrying on their business below?
What changes in fashion and behaviours would those cherubs have witnessed over the decades?
Watercolour painting by Janice Lyall
Gloucester Guildhall behind the Trees
Trees and stonework work so well together, regardless of the season. One of the noticeable things about the buildings in Gloucester is the difference in stone colour. Often towns and cities are just built from the local stone, as traditionally transport costs were huge. Where did the orange stone originate?Please let me know if you find out
Watercolour painting by Janice Lyall.
Where Countryside meets the City
Sometimes it is very easy to forget the countryside when in the middle of a City. However, cows graze just a few minutes away in the meadows which act as the flood plain.
Watercolour sketch by Janice Lyall
Fun at Newent Onion Fayre
......And its all about Onions!
The entire base of the market hall is piled with sackfuls of onions in all shapes, sizes and colours. Bystanders are fascinated to watch onions being strung by dexterous fingers and sympathise with contestants brave enough to tackle the raw onion eating contests. Its a day of celebration, live music, Morris dancing, fun fairs and of course, eating.
'Shallot to see!'
Watercolour painting by conservation artist Janice Lyall