Lighthouse Best Friend, Carol Liversidge has been coming to concerts and shows here since the building first opened as Poole Arts Centre in 1978.
A lifelong music fan, she and her sister spent their teenage years enjoying the vibrant folk scene in Somerset where many pubs ran their own folk club. Saturday nights were often spent enjoying 'open mic' evenings, where everyone was able to have a go in turn. They also toured the area in a folk group singing harmonies.
The region’s biggest arts venue was Bristol's Colston Hall (now Bristol Beacon), 30 miles away. It was quite a trek in those days, but they saw the likes of Elton John, The Beach Boys, Status Quo, The Carpenters and many more great bands.
Carol also recalls a wonderful BSO concert there, saying: “Little did we think that, many years on, we would get to know the BSO and experience the many and varied joys of its incredible permanent home so well!”
Now, some 13 years after being able to escape a lifetime of office work and able to make the most of her freedom, Carol loves everything Lighthouse has to offer and is very proud to be a Best Friend.
Why did you first start coming to Lighthouse and when?
We were keen to experience the new Poole Arts Centre in 1978 and attended what was maybe the first BSO concert there – Dvořák’s New World Symphony. We so remember the thrill of experiencing wonderful music in the pristine Wessex Hall, the acoustic was superb. The energy in that space was electric. Of course, we loved the transformation to Lighthouse in 2002.
What do you enjoy most about coming here?
The atmosphere at Lighthouse is always friendly and warm – an arts environment like no other. There is such a thrill of anticipation going through the doors.
What are the best experiences/memories have you had here?
There are so many – BSO concerts, the Symphonic Pink Floyd was simply electrifying; Jazz Dance Company, an annual event from these wonderful dancers on the cusp of their careers; Carlos Acosta’s BRB2; so many art exhibitions and poetry readings as well.
Why did you first join in to support us?
I first joined in June last year because I felt passionately that I needed to support such a brilliant venue.
How have you supported us and why that way?
I have given several donations and upgraded my membership. I’m now in the process of updating my Will and including a residuary gift to Lighthouse.
What difference are you making to what we do?
I would love to think many of us who feel strongly that we need to support and cherish Lighthouse, and do so in a consistent and practical way, will make a difference.
What do you hope your support will help us to achieve?
Every charitable organisation needs to be able to rely on regular giving so that it can thrive with confidence.
Why should others help support our work?
Everyone who has visited Lighthouse and therefore experienced its magical diversity should think deeply about the need to ensure its future… and take action!
:: To find out more about Lighthouse Friends and ways to support Lighthouse and its work, visit https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/support-us/
