Hunsdon Village Hall Stage Decoration
A Note From The Artist
This is in two parts:
i) the proscenium arch and apron
ii) backdrop to stage
The overall design of the proscenium arch and apron is debased classical Graeco-Roman, as might have been implemented by the Elizabethans, with symbols, motifs and medallions incorporating Hunsdon’s heritage; agricultural, Roman, Christian - with special reference on the apron to the four Tudor monarchs especially associated with Hunsdon House. Henry VIII was attracted by the hunting, and his three children Edward VI, Mary I and Elizabeth I all spent part of their childhood here. Central to the proscenium arch design is an arrangement of agricultural tools, a wheatsheaf. a wheel and the village pump, all symbols of important aspects of village life. They are set against a background of oak leaves - a reference to the village’s ‘Acorn Street’, although this is believed to be a derivation from an old word for plough or ploughman. Also included are medallion references to a turkey and cockerel -the ‘Turkeycock’ public house (removed during the war and relocated in the village as the Crazy Pub - now also gone.)
As a permanent backdrop to the stage is an ‘Elizabethan Tapestry’ design in muted browns and pinks. It includes some of the local flora and fauna, the village church and aesthetic references to the two remaining public houses ‘The Fox’ and ’The Crown’.
The central and focal point of the ‘tapestry’ is the Village Hall itself, over which flies an R.A.F. Mosquito, another reminder of Fighter Command’s activity here from 1939 -1945. (The R.A.F. badge also figures on the proscenium arch design.)
I started work on the murals about a month before Christmas (1999) and was asked to complete by Millennium Eve if possible. I was able to do this although I am still working on details.
I hope the overall effect is an improvement and that it will stimulate thought and interest in our past, our present and our future.
Reg Burton
23 January 2000