My earliest memory of the Theatre Royal was in 1936 when I was taken to see the comedy musical 1066 and All That.

A more dramatic visit was on February 5, 1941, at a revival of Frederic Lonsdale's On Approval, starring Barry K Barnes and Diana Churchill.

At one point in the play Barry K Barnes was seated at a desk, writing a note, when the air raid warning sirens were heard. There was a slight murmur in the auditorium. Mr Barnes looked up and spoke directly to the audience.

He said: "Ladies and Gentlemen, as you have just heard, there is now an air raid alert. This performance will, however, continue. But first, should any one desire to leave the theatre, the house lights will be put on to assist you "

The house lights duly came on. Nobody moved. Mr Barnes said: "Thank you. We will now continue with the play."

There was loud applause as the house lights dimmed and the action was resumed. Some time later there was more applause as we heard the "all clear"

sounded. It was quite an exciting evening!

  • John Moss, Eaton Court, Hove