“White Glove” Furniture Movers work their magic at Bath
On the 19th and 20th May, Bath Masonic Hall hosted a performance of “The Judgement of Paris – re-mixed”, a musical performance, part of Bath Spa University’s SparkFest.
This would not have been possible without the sterling work of Peter Townsend, WM of St. Alphege Lodge. Peter organised the hiring of the hall, also acting as host and general factotum to the theatrical troupe during their rehearsals and performances.
Peter marshalled his small team of volunteer furniture movers, who cleared the lodge of all the Masonic furniture; the most arduous of which was the black and white “pavement” (ie. the carpet).
Hiring the hall out for functions and theatricals provides much needed income which contributes to the upkeep of the historic building and raises the Freemasons’ profile in Bath. https://oldtheatreroyal.com/venue/
The furniture is antique and fragile; some elements are very valuable. Great care is needed when handling it, hence the “white glove” movers. Also storing it behind the screens in the lodge is like a game of antique furniture Tetris, and the storage area resembles Tutankhamen’s tomb!
Whenever Bath Masonic Hall is hired out, the events are “bookended” by the process of removing the furniture and then replacing it.
There are other productions in the coming months, which will require the hall to be cleared and restored. “The Haunting of Richard the Third” w/c 3rd July, Bath Show Choir on 9th July and a wedding on 6th and 7th August.
More volunteers are always needed and welcome. If you would like to become part of the small “white glove” furniture moving team, please email Peter Townsend: enquiries@oldtheatreroyal.com
Any help will be gratefully received and make life easier for a very hardworking Mason.