Our Patch AUTUMN 2017
T
he new-look Lyric is bold,
dramatic and multi-purpose,
but has never lost sight of
its aim of entertaining the
people of Hammersmith,
Fulham and the whole of
west London. So, two years after its
reopening, how do three women at
the heart of the theatre’s volunteering
bodies feel about the place?
Laura Banes’ Lyric links include being
a mentor on the START programme,
which for the past decade has used
drama to connect with marginalised 16
to 21-year-olds.
Liz Elston Mayhew has, for the past
seven years, served on the theatre’s
development committee, and believes
it’s the fact that the building is in the
heart of town that is key to its success.
And former Blue Peter presenter Janet
Ellis, who also serves on the board, says
that the enhanced, expanded complex
remains a joyous source of inspiration.
“The entire development committee
are currently focused on organising
‘Lyric Fest’ – the Lyric’s upcoming
fundraising gala taking place on 24
September to raise money for the Lyric’s
young people’s programmes,” said
Laura. The event will bring awareness
for the Lyric’s work, and features
performances from Jude Law, Sophie
Ellis Bextor and Joe Stilgoe, with Mel
Giedroyc hosting.
“The place energises me,” said Laura,
who is not only a loyal theatre-goer
but is also an active member of both
the development and gala committees.
“I’ve been involved for several years,
not only because it is a producing
theatre on our doorstep, but because of
the incredible work they do with young
people from all backgrounds,” she said.
The Reuben Foundation Wing has
quickly become a hive of the best kind
of activity; drawing in and supporting
young people from west London and
beyond. “The Lyric truly makes a
difference in the lives of young people,
many of whom have had life experiences
that are difficult to imagine.”
Laura and her husband are Americans
who have lived in the area for 21 of the
last 23 years (they diverted to Frankfurt
for two years), and have lived in their
current house near Brook Green for
15 years, raising their three children
there. “The Lyric succeeds in being a
community hub at a time when it is
tremendously important that we draw
together as a community,” she said.
“Everyone feels welcome at the Lyric
8/9
The Reuben Foundation opened in 2015 with
extensive