A community theatre in Coventry is celebrating an award in the King’s Birthday Honours for David Meredith, who has chaired the Albany Theatre Trust since its inception in 2012.
David has been given a British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to theatre and to the community in Coventry.
Professor Andy Hardy, joint Vice Chair, said:
“This is well-deserved recognition of the dedication and hard work David has put into driving the development of The Albany from an empty building to what is now a fabulous facility that is going to remain important for the city for generations to come. The Trust has faced many threats over the years and come near to closure on several occasions, but David has led with steely determination – whenever the going has got tough, he has responded with great energy”.
David Meredith said he was pleased and proud to receive the award, but also a little embarrassed:
“To be honest, this isn’t about me. It’s about the Albany Theatre and the hundreds of volunteers, Trustees and staff who have worked over the last 15 years to create the best and most accessible professionally managed community theatre venue in Coventry. I’m proud to receive this in recognition of everything they have all done. I have to say it is shared not only with them and the city, but above all with my wife Sue and long-suffering family. I can only apologise!”
Sarah Jordan, joint Vice Chair, said :
“We are all thrilled that David has received this well-deserved recognition, but it’s also testament to the steadfast cross-party commitment of Coventry City Councillors, and the city’s MPs, consistently acting over more than 20 years from when the College moved out to save such an important city resource. The Albany is steadily growing, reaching into and supporting many more communities across the city. It’s a great day for Coventry.
“We are hosting our First Draft Festival next weekend, showcasing our new facilities and many local, community and professional groups – it will be a brilliant way to celebrate this award.”
