With the timing of this issue we will have missed the first and only public theatre event for March so we’re going to share some insights in to the regular events at The Rose Centre.

But first let me say good-bye. This is my last Rose Centre column for Channel. Despite Covid, The Rose Centre is as healthy as can reasonably be expected. After our leaky building rebuild in 2016-17, the two years 2017 to 2019 saw us rebuild our traditional utilisations for the theatre. My big challenge was sorted, and systems are lighter and easier than when I arrived. A new, much more locally focused Board will now, I think, look to rebuild the community room usage to levels not seen since the '90s. New people will work hard on maintaining the theatre and delivering on the new focus. I wish them well!

So I will depart reminding you of the vital work we already do in providing a venue for both our junior and senior communities. For the juniors it’s all about out of school programming. Every term day when we’re not locked down (I write this two days after the February one) sKids Belmont operates here. Local school kids join an enthusiastic team who lead them through the homework of the day, some play and fun growth together. One day a week that’s supplemented by the Bricks for Kids team whose creativity with LEGO® challenges your kids' minds.

For seniors, CMA shows up here almost every Thursday in school terms to provide companionship and activities ending with a lovely lunch. Once a month the Rebus Ladies Club of Belmont-Bayswater meets; on a separate day the Rebus Club of Devonport meets. Both arrange interesting speakers with compelling and informative stories.

Finally for one week every school holidays we welcome National Youth Theatre with the dancing, singing and acting Allstars programme. It’s a wonderfully creative week for your 7-16 year-olds. For contact info and more details, read the What’s On section of our webpage at rosecentre.co.nz and choose the “ongoing events” sub heading.