Written by: Megan Stone
July 2025
This year marks a remarkable milestone for one of Theatre Royal Plymouth’s longest-serving members of staff, Sadie Norsworthy. With 40 years of service under her belt, Sadie’s journey is a testament to her deep commitment to TRP, welcoming both companies and patrons across her career, and her unwavering passion for theatre.
We sat down with Sadie to reflect on four decades of memories, challenges, and triumphs. We hear about her incredible journey, her insights into the evolving world of theatre, and the lessons she’s learnt along the way.
Q: You began your TRP journey working in The Green Room. Tell us about that role and what it entailed.
“The Green Room was a special place for visiting performers to eat, relax, and have some private time before or after shows. It was a sanctuary where performers could take a breather and prepare for their next performance. Over time, I built strong relationships with them, and they knew they could count on me to make them feel special. I really put my heart into it. Sometimes companies would say, ‘Sadie, I haven’t been before, but so-and-so sends their love and said it’s the loveliest Green Room‘. So I’d say, ‘It’s the best Green Room in the country!‘
“People would often think I was in charge of the Green Room, but I was just doing my bit for 20 years, and that’s something I’m really proud of.”
Q: You’ve been at Theatre Royal Plymouth for 40 years – what has kept you here for so long?
“It’s a lovely, social environment to work in. The theatre brings in such a cross-section of theatre, from opera and ballet to great plays and pantos, which has kept me excited about the job over the years. To have companies thank me when they leave and say what a lovely time they’ve had, makes it a pleasure to be a part of.”
Q: How has working here shaped your love of theatre?
“I initially came to the theatre a couple of times with my daughter, but it wasn’t until I started working here that I truly became involved in the theatre world. Watching performances and getting to know the actors made me appreciate theatre in a whole new way.
“There was also a critical moment when the theatre nearly lost its funding, and a massive campaign was launched to save it. I was involved in that effort, giving speeches before shows to raise awareness. We collected over 10,000 signatures, and in the end, we saved the theatre’s funding. I’m proud to have been part of that.”
Q: Are there any performers who made a particular impression on you?
“David Suchet. I adore him as an actor. I saw him perform several times, and he’s just such a lovely, grounded person. I even had the chance to visit him in his dressing room in Bristol. He was so warm and humble.”
Q: Do performers ever come back and remember you?
“Yes, absolutely! Even now, I occasionally run into people who remember me from the Green Room. Some of them will say, ‘You’re still here?!‘ It’s always lovely to be remembered, especially after so many years.”
Q: After you retired from the Green Room, you returned to work Front of House within a few months. What brought you back?
“We tragically lost our daughter, Lynn, to cancer in 2006, so I took some time off to rethink my life. My boss told me I could always return if I wanted. As it turned out, coming back was my saviour. It helped me through that very difficult time. The support from colleagues and the sense of purpose it gave me was truly invaluable. I don’t know how I would have gotten through it without being here.”
Q: How does your current role as an usher differ from your work in the Green Room, and what’s a typical day like for you now?
“As ushers, we arrive before the show starts and gather in the auditorium. Our House Managers brief us on the audience details, such as wheelchair spaces or any special needs. Once the show starts, we’re at the doors greeting guests and making sure they feel welcomed. It’s lovely when patrons leave after a show, telling us how much they enjoyed it. I’ve always enjoyed that connection with people, whether in the Green Room, or now as an usher.”
Q: What does Theatre Royal Plymouth mean to you personally?
“It’s such a treasure. Before this theatre was built, there was nothing west of Bristol. It was initially met with a lot of scepticism, but despite the criticisms, it’s thrived. We’re lucky to have this beautiful, modern theatre offering a wide range of performances. It’s been a joy to be a part of it all these years. Many other theatres are older and more Victorian in style, but we have something fresh and contemporary here.”
Q: What’s something the public might not know about the behind-the-scenes life of a theatre?
“One thing people don’t realise is how down-to-earth many performers are. Even though they have big names and personas, they’re often very humble and ordinary when you get to know them. It’s easy to get caught up in the glamour of the theatre, but behind the scenes, it’s a lot more laid-back than people expect.”
Q: Have you noticed any changes in the theatre and its audiences over the years?
“The audiences have changed, and the theatre has evolved too. When I talk to people who’ve never been to the theatre, I always say, ‘You don’t know what you’re missing.’ Live theatre has something that film or TV can’t replicate. We’ve always worked hard to bring people in, and I think there’s a growing appreciation for the experience of attending live shows.”
Q: How has working here impacted your life overall?
“Working here has been more than just a job – it’s been a part of my life. It’s been my saviour, especially through tough times. The social environment here is wonderful, and I’ve met so many amazing people. Every day has felt like a joy, never like work. It’s not just about the theatre – it’s about the people you work with and the sense of community we’ve built.”