Why I've got that sinking feeling (From The Northern Echo)

Why I've got that sinking feeling

10:13am Wednesday 22nd February 2012 in Peter Barron By Peter Barron

Many privileges have come my way during my 13 years as editor of The Northern Echo.

But I've never before had the chance to appear on stage in the role of a legendary newspaper figure who died 100 years ago.

It's fair to say that I'm very excited at the prospect of playing the part of William Thomas Stead in the forthcoming production of Titanic: The Musical at Darlington Civic Theatre.

Stead, a great campaigning editor of The Northern Echo, died when the Titanic went down.

And now I am to get the chance to pay a personal tribute to my illustrious predecessor in a stage role with the brilliant Darlington Operatic Society.

I attended my first rehearsal last night and was measured up for my costume. I take issue with the outrageous claim that I'm a 38in waist but that's a minor detail. I can only assume that they've allowed for a life-jacket.

I am already hugely impressed with the professionalism and talent of the cast and I am looking forward to seeing from the inside how a theatre production comes to life.

I only have a small part - snigger, snigger - but it remains a big challenge and I'll be throwing myself into it in the coming weeks.

The company have even morphed my face into WT Stead for promotional purposes.

Once the costume arrives, it is my intention to spend a day in character, editing The Northern Echo as William Stead.

Come to think of it, he used to come to work on a horse and tie it up outside Crown Street Library.

If anyone has a horse going spare, I'll happily trot to the office.

The show runs at Darlington Civic Theatre from April 25 to May 5 and I intend to do as many performances as possible.

I can't sing, can't dance, can't act - but can't wait.

Please come. Ticket information is on 01325 244659 or you can book online at darlingtonos.org.uk