“I can't speak for Derby folk, only for myself - what I want is a theatre, where I can attend and be involved in, a broad range of productions. This opportunity has not been open to me for a long time - whereas in the past it was and I always felt that Derby Playhouse was for the people, all of us, not just some of us. There's now a viable, stable solution to put the Playhouse back on its feet - with people at the helm who will make it work because they want the Playhouse to be successful and for Derby to have vibrant and exciting Arts. Dribs and drabs of money here and there won't help secure the long term future of the theatre. Derby LIVE has offered that stability and viability. Give it a chance - it's very easy to critcise something that hasn't even had an opportunity to be successful.”

“I dont think you are going to get an answer steve!”

“As a fan of drama, without a vested interest in a previous regime, I would personally be grateful for any saviour of the theatre, if it generates enough revenue to keep it open. No pun is intended here as I know that the church has been linked with the future of the theatre (as reported on Radio Derby yesterday morning). I think that certain people here don't even know themselves whether it is the theatre -as an entity itself- that they want to save, or they are just sour because their personal whim isn't being catered for in any new plan. I would be interested to know which of the AVAILABLE options they'd prefer. 1) The theatre as a going concern albeit with popular productions and/or a dual use. 2) No theatre and a shop there instead. Real fans of the theatre know which choice makes sense.”

“Mig,
Thankyou for a more respectful approach this time.
Whilst I am writing this, I cannot refer back to your comments on my screen, so sorry this isn't specific to your points. But in general, I would just like to say although I am a genuine supporter of DPH, and feel that a great injustice has been done, I am not accountable for DPH management! I am sick of being verbally attacked, as if I represent the Board! I DO NOT.
I have stated my position very clearly on a number of occasions.It is up to members of the DPH management team to defend themselves.I can only add my words and views of support, in much the same way as supporters of DCC/Derby LIVE can do on these pages.
Personally, I hate this either/or scenario, and feel it is damaging for the future of theatre and the arts in Derby.
A lot may be down to personal politics at the end of the day.
but as far as "evidence" of injustice is concerned- it is common knowledge that 3 formal complaints have been submitted at the highest national level, and we all await the outcome of that. If there has been wrong doing- people should be accountable!
in the meantime, as we all know, the administrators are considering all bids and offers for the lease of DPH- which is reported as being worth nearly a million pounds. Also, the creditors' meeting- hopefully over the next few weeks.the sooner things move on, the easier it will be for all of us to move on I hope.”

“It would seem -as usual- that a certain person's sensitivity register needs recalibrating. Their accusations have no base whatsoever. People are sick and tired of hearing what they have to say on this matter, and their blind arrogance towards others who do not share their viewpoint.”

“So, the fact that DPL have failed to raise the money needed to make the theatre work is seen by you as a success? I would say that was a pretty comprehensive failure. Particularly after the extension.”

“Good points well made, Mig. And points that I have asked Joanne and DPL supporters to elaborate on many times. The problem is though that for some inexplicable reason any questions about their position appear to be perceived as 'vile' comments or 'insults'. I don't find this 'retort' to be productive in terms of the debate, and I have merely asked Joanne about this tactic. When analysed closely the DPL arguments hold little water, and they don't appear to want to do much to change my opinion.”

“BHL,
What a waste of energy it would be for both of us to continue mud slinging and point scoring. I also note that you still fail to reveal your identity, and your background on this issue, which perhaps gives you some sort of stance of superiority?I have not heard one personal statement from you ever, other than persistent goading and condascendent. remarks .As for this so called "victim" mentality you speak of- these are your woeds and interpretation, not mine.Are you surprised I am offended by comments such as "wounded animal, victim,tired vague comments, etc etc?!" Can you not rephrase your comments to show a modicum of civility or respect?
As for sweeping comments about what you deem the "facts"-like"regime failing miserably"etc- how on earth are you in a position to know this unrefutedly? Have you ever spoken to the people involved,
or for that matter had any involvement with the theatre whatsoever?
All any of us can be until more
"facts" and events unfold are
speculators and onlookers.”

“Hi Joanne, I think what some people are keen to do is discuss some of the facts that you are referring to in your comments. I for one would be interested to hear them, and not just to pick holes but I think there is a risk that this is becoming a one sided argument. If you don¿t think that some of the comments are being made whilst in possession of all the facts then it would be great for you to elaborate on them. I¿m not wading in here and sticking my flag in the ground one way or another, but I worry that the pro Playhouse comments on here are not weighing up in terms of backing up what you are saying. When you refer to ¿the truth coming out¿ what is it that you mean by that? What are your thoughts on the level of risk brought about by selling the lease? You occasionally refer to a great deal of evidence that has been presented to the government ombudsman, what is this? Would you agree that the lack of funding was brought about by a lack of faith in the current management from both DCC and ACE? If not, then why was this withdrawn? If it came down to a black and white decision of either lose the theatre forever or hand it over to DCC, what would you do? Not arguing here, just genuinely interested.”

“Oh dear, whilst I can see half truths on both sides, it does seem six of one and half a dozen of the other from where I'm standing.

But it is an interesting reflection of the situation between DPL and DCC.

Unless people get out of their trenches and talk to each other in a civilised and constructive manner , then no progress can be made at all.”