THE management team at Altrincham Garrick Playhouse has hit on an imaginative plan to raise money for the theatre.

They are imitating the Emperor’s New Clothes and putting on a play that doesn’t exist.

Sarah Reilly and Joe Meighan have arranged to present a hypothetical play based on the first play ever put on by the theatre.

It was The Silver Box, by John Galsworthy, which was presented on March 18, 1914, at the Public Hall, Altrincham.

Messenger Newspapers: play: The theatre’s first production

Sarah said:  “During a typical season at Altrincham Garrick Playhouse we produce, on average, 12 productions in our Main House and five productions in our Lauriston Studio.

“We do have plans to reopen to live performances safely as soon as we can. However, the effect of not being able to generate our usual income is taking its toll on us.”

Joe said: “This performance will not actually take place.   It is a fictional production. Buying £5 tickets will be a way of supporting the Garrick Playhouse at this difficult time.”

Purchasing tickets in advance for the so-called play which is supposed to take place between February 15 and 20 will give supporters a chance to win the following prizes in a raffle:

- Four complimentary tickets to the Garrick’s 2021/22 pantomime, Peter Pan.

- Two complimentary tickets for a Garrick production of your choice in the Autumn/Winter Season 2021 (two of these prizes available).

- One complimentary Garrick membership lasting 12 months. This allows you to purchase two member-priced tickets for any of the Garrick’s in-house Playhouse and Lauriston Productions and also Picturehouse Screenings.

Although the Garrick phone lines are closed, you can email ticket enquiries to boxoffice@altrinchamgarrick.co.uk or, for general enquiries, admin@altrinchamgarrick.co.uk.