Our November trip is now on 30th and will be a tour of some of Andalucia's best white villages and towns. At any time of the year they are quite stunning as they curl up mountains, usually crowned by a Moorish castle, but in both Spring and Autumn there are complimentary colours which bring out the best for the eyes and the cameras. Our trip includes a breakfast stop and lunch and is only 23 euros.
The theatre is going well despite the continuing problems. The Boyfriend has been a success and now 'Stepping Out' opened last night with advance bookings going really well. At rehearsals yesterday for 'Witness For The Prosecution' the electrics failed but the electricians rallied round and all was well by the time we had finished a line rehearsal in the bar. It's shaping up well and we hope will be another run to rebuild the coffers after the summer. Unfortunately the next show 'Abigail's Party' has had to be cancelled so that the theatre can go dark long enough for the work to be completely finalised. After that Lizz has her Christmas Show which is always a really popular and fun way to get in the mood for Christmas and the Pantomime which is now cast and will begin rehearsing soon.
Don't forget our Christmas Bazaar on December 9th. If you can help with something for it our desk will be delighted to see you. Of course we'll be delighted to see you on the day and hope that you will find something for Christmas.
If you are reading this away from the Costa del Sol just to let you know that the autumn has begun. It happens quite suddenly on the Mediterranean and we are now down to about 20C and the last week has seen a lot of cloud and some rain. Still I guess we don't suffer too much.
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Sunday, October 15, 2006
What a week!
Phew! it all came good this week. Our trip to the Howling was a great success although there was a problem with the cold. Here on the coast we have got used to the thermometer rarely dropping below 20 and when we set off it was shirt sleeves and summer dresses but as the sun dipped over the incredibly spectacular mountains behind Antequera the temperature went down with it. Those who had brought anoraks were OK but those of us who had wondered whether a light pullover was overdoing it, suffered. Nevertheless we had an enjoyable meal before setting off as it got dark. The wolves were beautiful and the enthusiasm of Daniel their host was infectious. We came away with a changed idea of the wolf and a respect for its place in nature.
At the theatre 'The Boyfriend' started only ten minutes behind schedule. Literally the audience could have watched the paint dry if the tabs had been open. There is still a bit of a problem with the electrics, mostly affecting the house lights but the stage was perfectly lit. First reviews in the bar on Saturday lunchtime were very enthusiastic with the youngsters dancing coming in for high praise and barely a word of criticism of the performances even from people who weren't cast!
FOTA's next big thing is the book sale on Saturday and stocks are good so come along and get prepared for the long winter evenings. Although it is still summer here with daytime temperatures reaching 29 we can't be too far away from a few wet nights when indoors is where it's at. Sale starts at 12. Looking forward to seeing you.
At the theatre 'The Boyfriend' started only ten minutes behind schedule. Literally the audience could have watched the paint dry if the tabs had been open. There is still a bit of a problem with the electrics, mostly affecting the house lights but the stage was perfectly lit. First reviews in the bar on Saturday lunchtime were very enthusiastic with the youngsters dancing coming in for high praise and barely a word of criticism of the performances even from people who weren't cast!
FOTA's next big thing is the book sale on Saturday and stocks are good so come along and get prepared for the long winter evenings. Although it is still summer here with daytime temperatures reaching 29 we can't be too far away from a few wet nights when indoors is where it's at. Sale starts at 12. Looking forward to seeing you.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
'Howling with the Wolves' had 35 booked by last night which is encouraging news. It means we should raise funds with the trip and, as someone who is going on it, there will be a good crowd so it should be fun. The theatre news is promising too. The Boyfriend is in the final stages of rehearsal but I hear comments that it is ready now. It opens this Friday. We are still keeping our fingers crossed that all will be well with the theatre. Yesterday evening the auditorium looked immaculate for a packed meeting of NADFAS. Rehearsals are well under way for the re run of 'Stepping Out' 'Abigails Party' and for 'Witness For the Prosecution' so the Autumn is looking pretty good.
Away from the theatre Lynn who is our Membership Secretary, took over The Gun at the Riverside (do summer holidaymakers believe it sometimes is a river?) for a special birthday and a great time was had by her friends with the singers in the party giving us a very enjoyable cabaret.
Don't forget the Book sale on October 21st.
Away from the theatre Lynn who is our Membership Secretary, took over The Gun at the Riverside (do summer holidaymakers believe it sometimes is a river?) for a special birthday and a great time was had by her friends with the singers in the party giving us a very enjoyable cabaret.
Don't forget the Book sale on October 21st.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Our next trip is Howling with the Wolves at the Lobo Park near Antequera. We leave Fuengirola at 4.30 on October 12th (next Thursday) and the trip includes a barbeque. Come and see us at the desk if you are interested.
The theatre is slowly coming together. The electrical work isn't finished yet but the crew are pretty confident that all will be well in time for 'The Boyfriend'. Sandy Wilson's hit musical opens on Friday 13th!! It's not a mindstretcher, just great fun and having been nosey when they were rehearsing it looks like a good evening.
This week will be Feria in Fuengirola so if you are able to get in but have thought it not for you give it a try. Having been to Málaga and Torremolinos Ferias this year I can say that Fuengirola is a bit different. It specialises in horse events and as it is the last Feria of the season seems to attract horsemen - and women - from far and wide. It also seems friendlier and more accessible. A real chance for the foreigners to get in touch with Spanish culture (what will they make of The Boyfriend if they come to the Salon?)
The theatre is slowly coming together. The electrical work isn't finished yet but the crew are pretty confident that all will be well in time for 'The Boyfriend'. Sandy Wilson's hit musical opens on Friday 13th!! It's not a mindstretcher, just great fun and having been nosey when they were rehearsing it looks like a good evening.
This week will be Feria in Fuengirola so if you are able to get in but have thought it not for you give it a try. Having been to Málaga and Torremolinos Ferias this year I can say that Fuengirola is a bit different. It specialises in horse events and as it is the last Feria of the season seems to attract horsemen - and women - from far and wide. It also seems friendlier and more accessible. A real chance for the foreigners to get in touch with Spanish culture (what will they make of The Boyfriend if they come to the Salon?)
Thursday, September 07, 2006
This week we had our first committee meeting of the new year and decided that the November trip - on the 23rd - will be a twist on an old favourite. We shall go to Gibraltar and include a guided visit to the defensive tunnels but with enough time left over to do a little Christmas shopping. The social event after that will be our Christmas lunch, this year at El Brujo which is in El Coto. There is a good bus service for those who don't have, or don't want to use a car. We have had really good reports of the restaurant and with a cost of only 20 euros we hope there will be a good crowd.
The theatre is still in a chaotic state just like all those ' will they be ready on time' TV shows. The bar has been repainted and is up and running, the loos are fantastic but the Chekhov is upside down and the theatre itself covered in a fine patina of dust. But the work should be finished soon and with a good vacuum we may yet have the first show of the season on time. The Board are due to confirm this tomorrow. The theatre crew have been working really long hours and we must all be really grateful to them for getting us so far so fast.
Once the Chekhov is functioning again the Theatre Library deserves your attention. Most of us have seen the bookcase and looked at the titles but did you know that you can borrow them? Just ask David Radford ( usually selling the recycled cards which raise so much for FOTA). FOTA have added to the collection by buying the books which Penny Rixon had in her library. They filled three cars and haven't been catalogued yet but I think we can be confident that there will be something inspiring in there.
The new sound desk that FOTA was buying for the theatre has turned out to be more expensive than we first thought but we have agreed that we will pay for it. We often get asked what happens to the money raised by selling re-cycled cards and organising trips so if you get a balcony seat at a show this year take a look at the sound desk!
The theatre is still in a chaotic state just like all those ' will they be ready on time' TV shows. The bar has been repainted and is up and running, the loos are fantastic but the Chekhov is upside down and the theatre itself covered in a fine patina of dust. But the work should be finished soon and with a good vacuum we may yet have the first show of the season on time. The Board are due to confirm this tomorrow. The theatre crew have been working really long hours and we must all be really grateful to them for getting us so far so fast.
Once the Chekhov is functioning again the Theatre Library deserves your attention. Most of us have seen the bookcase and looked at the titles but did you know that you can borrow them? Just ask David Radford ( usually selling the recycled cards which raise so much for FOTA). FOTA have added to the collection by buying the books which Penny Rixon had in her library. They filled three cars and haven't been catalogued yet but I think we can be confident that there will be something inspiring in there.
The new sound desk that FOTA was buying for the theatre has turned out to be more expensive than we first thought but we have agreed that we will pay for it. We often get asked what happens to the money raised by selling re-cycled cards and organising trips so if you get a balcony seat at a show this year take a look at the sound desk!
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Welcome to Fota blog for 2006 where we will try to keep all the members of FOTA up to date with our activities and the happenings at the theatre.
FOTA is a fundraising and social group for the Salon Varieties Theatre in Fuengirola on Spain's Costa del Sol. We raise funds in a number of ways. During our season (September to May) we organise trips into Andalucia and sometimes further afield, then every month we have a lunch at a local restaurant. Several times a year we use the theatre forecourt for bazaars and we also do our bit for the environment by recycling Christmas and birthday cards which are sold in the theatre's bar.
If you want to come along and join or chat to us we have a table in the bar on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 11.30 to 1.15.
This year's programme kicks off with a social lunch at Ku Damm on October 5th. If you don't know this restaurant it is on the port overlooking the boats. It's a very popular restaurant and just the sort of place to get to know some fellow Fota members in a convivial atmosphere.
The first trip of the year is a return to the 'Howling of the Wolves' which was easily the most popular of the trips we did last year with nearly half a coachload of people disappointed as our one coach was full. This is on October 12th so come along and see us in the theatre forecourt as soon as you can.
Then on October 21st there is the Book sale on the theatre forecourt. This is another popular Saturday morning activity - keeping fingers crossed the autumn rains haven't arrived. It is also interactive which really just means if you have some books you have finished with that you think someone else will ennjoy then we would be happy to sell them for the theatre.
And so to the theatre. Work hasn't finished yet on the building and it is still touch and go whether the first show of the new season will go ahead. As soon as we get more news it will be posted. meanwhile rehearsals are starting for the Autumn season which will include: 'The Boy Friend' Stepping Out' Abigails Party' 'Witness for the Prosecution' and 'Grease'. More details soon or why not pick up a leaflet when you come to see us on Monday, Wednesday or Friday.
FOTA is a fundraising and social group for the Salon Varieties Theatre in Fuengirola on Spain's Costa del Sol. We raise funds in a number of ways. During our season (September to May) we organise trips into Andalucia and sometimes further afield, then every month we have a lunch at a local restaurant. Several times a year we use the theatre forecourt for bazaars and we also do our bit for the environment by recycling Christmas and birthday cards which are sold in the theatre's bar.
If you want to come along and join or chat to us we have a table in the bar on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 11.30 to 1.15.
This year's programme kicks off with a social lunch at Ku Damm on October 5th. If you don't know this restaurant it is on the port overlooking the boats. It's a very popular restaurant and just the sort of place to get to know some fellow Fota members in a convivial atmosphere.
The first trip of the year is a return to the 'Howling of the Wolves' which was easily the most popular of the trips we did last year with nearly half a coachload of people disappointed as our one coach was full. This is on October 12th so come along and see us in the theatre forecourt as soon as you can.
Then on October 21st there is the Book sale on the theatre forecourt. This is another popular Saturday morning activity - keeping fingers crossed the autumn rains haven't arrived. It is also interactive which really just means if you have some books you have finished with that you think someone else will ennjoy then we would be happy to sell them for the theatre.
And so to the theatre. Work hasn't finished yet on the building and it is still touch and go whether the first show of the new season will go ahead. As soon as we get more news it will be posted. meanwhile rehearsals are starting for the Autumn season which will include: 'The Boy Friend' Stepping Out' Abigails Party' 'Witness for the Prosecution' and 'Grease'. More details soon or why not pick up a leaflet when you come to see us on Monday, Wednesday or Friday.
Friday, July 14, 2006
There is still news even though the theatre is closed down for the summer. The builders are in and it seems almost as if we are in the middle of one of those 'will it be finished in time' reality shows. I've heard that progress is good in the bar and office area even if they look as if a bomb has hit it with plenty of rubble for souvenir collectors. Audience members will also be pleased to hear that the toilet refurbishment programme is coming along well. The bad news seems to be that the electricians still haven't started so are way behind schedule and with the reluctance of anyone to work in Andalucia in August it will be exciting times as the first production of the new season approaches. This is a visiting production so it's really important all goes well. Temperatures here are alrady approaching 30 (more if you can't find a breeze and are out in the sun) and the theatre can get very hot so it is a case of the sooner the better for the electrics and work that needs to be done on the roof.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
I've just come back from two weeks in the Canary Islands and although it was very pleasant to have nothing to do except lie in the sun and go to restaurants (and Sudoku of course) it really brought home to me how lucky we are on the Costa del Sol to have the Salon Varieties at Fuengirola. So let me begin by saying thank you to all those people who worked so hard to set it up twenty one years ago. It is up to us to keep it going and this summer has been a good example of where FOTA has been able to help.
A major power surge courtesy of Sevillana destroyed nearly all the electrical equipment in the theatre. The power company will only pay for repairs. As anyone who has tried to get repairs to electrical equipment that isn't exactly new will know, replacement is the only realistic option. FOTA has been pleased to pay for 5000 euros worth of new items - things like a DMX controller or Dimmer zero88 chilli pros (love that) as well as more obvious things like mini disc players and a computer monitor.
As well as that we have bought the theatre a new soundboard. The one used for the very successful musicals was excellent but belonged to the sound technician. With the performers and the directors thoroughly spoiled FOTA has paid 8000 euros for new to us soundboard.
Our season has come to an end and we are now looking forward to next Autumn. We have definitely planned another trip to see the wolves because that was so popular and we shall look forward to seeing old friends who have fled the heat of the Costa (30 degrees today) as we set up our stall again in the theatre's foyer.
A major power surge courtesy of Sevillana destroyed nearly all the electrical equipment in the theatre. The power company will only pay for repairs. As anyone who has tried to get repairs to electrical equipment that isn't exactly new will know, replacement is the only realistic option. FOTA has been pleased to pay for 5000 euros worth of new items - things like a DMX controller or Dimmer zero88 chilli pros (love that) as well as more obvious things like mini disc players and a computer monitor.
As well as that we have bought the theatre a new soundboard. The one used for the very successful musicals was excellent but belonged to the sound technician. With the performers and the directors thoroughly spoiled FOTA has paid 8000 euros for new to us soundboard.
Our season has come to an end and we are now looking forward to next Autumn. We have definitely planned another trip to see the wolves because that was so popular and we shall look forward to seeing old friends who have fled the heat of the Costa (30 degrees today) as we set up our stall again in the theatre's foyer.
Sunday, May 28, 2006
It was AGM time on Wednesday this week (May 24th). I wish I could say that the theatre was packed but despite having about 300 members of FOTA only 15 turned up. Still such dedicated members are the ones most likely to keep the committee on our toes. It was gratifying that they seemed pretty content with what we had done in the year past. It was a time too for some goodbyes. Especially missed will be Joan who is going back to England as are Ann and Roy Akers. Joan has been Secretary almost from the beginning and will be a hard act to follow. We also remembered Jackie Travis who died this year and had been one of the most important and influential members of the theatre.
One fundraising trip remains this year. The annual picnic and visit to the Lakes. (If you don't know Málaga province it may come as a surprise that behind the Costa del Sol there is a beautiful, mountainous lake district).WE STILL HAVE VACANCIES so put JUNE 1st in your diary and come and see us on the desk at the theatre on Monday or Wednesday.
With the bank account in a healthy state we considered ideas for spending on the theatre. One popular idea has been a CCTV system for the stage manager. When we have box sets the SM has to rely on the actors getting the lines right and... well lets just say it doesn't always happen. Seeing what is happening makes her life easier and stops the audience having unplanned entertainment. We are still looking for ideas so if you want to post one go ahead.
One fundraising trip remains this year. The annual picnic and visit to the Lakes. (If you don't know Málaga province it may come as a surprise that behind the Costa del Sol there is a beautiful, mountainous lake district).WE STILL HAVE VACANCIES so put JUNE 1st in your diary and come and see us on the desk at the theatre on Monday or Wednesday.
With the bank account in a healthy state we considered ideas for spending on the theatre. One popular idea has been a CCTV system for the stage manager. When we have box sets the SM has to rely on the actors getting the lines right and... well lets just say it doesn't always happen. Seeing what is happening makes her life easier and stops the audience having unplanned entertainment. We are still looking for ideas so if you want to post one go ahead.
Friday, April 07, 2006
The next production at the theatre is Ibsen's 'A Dolls House' . It's good to see the programming committee tackling an important classic - and it only gets to be a classic if it's good - and I am really looking forward to seeing it. The 'blurb' in the press reads:
Nora is a doll in her husband's eyes. She is a trophy he has won. He wants to keep his trophy pretty, pampered and kept on a high pedestal. When he talks to his wife he treats her like a little girl. He feels as if Nora should know nothing about their financial situation or any important issues in the household. It is a man's job in life to take care of the family. Torvald adores his wife but treats her as if she is not on the same level as him. He has pet names for her such as skylark, squirrel and feather brain. This is the story of Nora who bravely walks away from her confined marriage in a quest for freedom and self-enlightenment. A Dolls House from 1879 is performed as a tribute to Henrik Ibsen who died a hundred years ago. Henrik Hagensen directs in an entertaing, modern set. Samuel Adamson's snappy translation adds lethal punch and the classic play remains poignant touching and exciting for modern day audiences. Did Nora do the right thing? This question is still being discussed!
With a distinguished director and a cast of actors most of whom have worked in the professional theatre this should prove a stimulating and enjoyable evening. The play opens on Friday April 21st and runs toTuesday April 25th inclusive. Curtain up at 8.00 except Sunday when it is 7.00 I am looking forward to it.
Nora is a doll in her husband's eyes. She is a trophy he has won. He wants to keep his trophy pretty, pampered and kept on a high pedestal. When he talks to his wife he treats her like a little girl. He feels as if Nora should know nothing about their financial situation or any important issues in the household. It is a man's job in life to take care of the family. Torvald adores his wife but treats her as if she is not on the same level as him. He has pet names for her such as skylark, squirrel and feather brain. This is the story of Nora who bravely walks away from her confined marriage in a quest for freedom and self-enlightenment. A Dolls House from 1879 is performed as a tribute to Henrik Ibsen who died a hundred years ago. Henrik Hagensen directs in an entertaing, modern set. Samuel Adamson's snappy translation adds lethal punch and the classic play remains poignant touching and exciting for modern day audiences. Did Nora do the right thing? This question is still being discussed!
With a distinguished director and a cast of actors most of whom have worked in the professional theatre this should prove a stimulating and enjoyable evening. The play opens on Friday April 21st and runs toTuesday April 25th inclusive. Curtain up at 8.00 except Sunday when it is 7.00 I am looking forward to it.
Programme for the rest of this season:
Saturday April 8th - Easter Fair on the theatre forecourt
Thursday April 20th - Coach trip from Fuengirola to Malaga with a panorama of the city the a guided visit to the Jardin de la Concepcion followed by lunch in the mountains at a trout farm. Coach leaves from Solbank in Fuengirola at 9.30 a.m.
Thursday May 4th - Lunch at the beach. Chiringuito Antonio Videra in Los Boliches
Thursday May 18th - Evening trip to 'Howl with the Wolves' with a barbeque
thursday June 1st - Picnic at the Lakes
Saturday April 8th - Easter Fair on the theatre forecourt
Thursday April 20th - Coach trip from Fuengirola to Malaga with a panorama of the city the a guided visit to the Jardin de la Concepcion followed by lunch in the mountains at a trout farm. Coach leaves from Solbank in Fuengirola at 9.30 a.m.
Thursday May 4th - Lunch at the beach. Chiringuito Antonio Videra in Los Boliches
Thursday May 18th - Evening trip to 'Howl with the Wolves' with a barbeque
thursday June 1st - Picnic at the Lakes
FOTA
Welcome to Fota blog where we will try to keep all the members of FOTA up to date with our activities and the happenings at the theatre.
FOTA is a fundraising and social group for the Salon Varieties Theatre in Fuengirola on Spain's Costa del Sol. We raise funds in a number of ways. During our season (September to May) we organise trips into Andalucia and sometimes further afield, then every month we have a lunch at a local restaurant. Several times a year we use the theatre forecourt for bazaars and we also do our bit for the environment by recycling Christmas and birthday cards which are sold in the theatre's bar.
If you want to come along and join or chat to us we have a table in the bar on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 11.30 to 1.15.
FOTA is a fundraising and social group for the Salon Varieties Theatre in Fuengirola on Spain's Costa del Sol. We raise funds in a number of ways. During our season (September to May) we organise trips into Andalucia and sometimes further afield, then every month we have a lunch at a local restaurant. Several times a year we use the theatre forecourt for bazaars and we also do our bit for the environment by recycling Christmas and birthday cards which are sold in the theatre's bar.
If you want to come along and join or chat to us we have a table in the bar on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 11.30 to 1.15.
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