Daniel Suthalong
An arts centre was officially renamed in honour of author Sue Townsend at a ceremony today.
Phoenix Arts Centre, in Upper Brown Street, Leicester is now Sue Townsend Theatre as tribute to the Leicester-born creator of Adrian Mole, who died in April.
Sue’s husband, Colin Broadway, said: “Sue would have been embarrassed yet privately thrilled with the name change – but she would have wondered why her, and not Joe Orton.”
Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby unveiled a memorial plaque.
He said: “Sue is, without doubt, one of finest writers the city has produced.
“She loved Leicester and she loved live performance, so it’s wholly appropriate this venue – which is now inspiring talented young people to develop their acting skills – should be renamed in her honour.”
Sue began her literary career as the writer-in-residence at the old Phoenix and wrote her first play, Womberang, while she was there.
The venue is now leased to Leicester College and used for teaching.
Students from Leicester College performed the play at the opening ceremony.
Ian Mckeand, acting lecturer at Leicester College, and the director of the play, said: “Womberang, although an early play, shows all the sparkling wit and political edge that was to flourish in Sue Townsend’s later work.
“It has been a joy and pleasure to rediscover Leicester’s own radical Sue Townsend.”
The city council, which owns the building, funded the work to re-brand the theatre. The budget of £20,000 also supported the production of Womberang.
The Sue Townsend Theatre is available for community use.
