WE are writing to you with our thoughts regarding Okehampton Cinema. We recently heard of the plans to convert the cinema into flats. We think that the town would benefit a lot more if the building were transformed into a theatre. It would give the youngsters of the town a lot more to do in their spare time as opposed to loitering around and possibly vandalising. We think that it would also give Okehampton a more positive outlook. Many people complain about youths causing trouble, getting drunk etc. However, nobody is willing to put themselves out there and do something about it. A theatre wouldn?t only benefit a younger generation it would also benefit the adults. The Courtenay Players amateur dramatic performances are extremely popular to all ages and if we were able to have a theatre in the town it would mean that they could hold regular performances and may mean that people would travel into Okehampton, as it would be a ?place to see?. The cinema already has the requirements a theatre needs; it has the chairs, the foyer, the toilets, the advertisement board and the stage area. All it needs is refurbishing and for our community to support it. In Okehampton there are many pubs and clubs etc. However, this isn?t at all suitable for the younger generation. There is nothing open past six o?clock for children to meet up with their friends. Transforming the cinema into a theatre would give children a place to meet friends and would bring together Okehampton as a community. There are so many people within Okehampton that have the talent and if we could provide somewhere where they could perform regularly, then they would be given ?their chance? to show others what they are capable of. It would also give the younger ones something to look up to and to look forward to. We appreciate there are plans to convert the cinema into flats, however, we think that a theatre would be much more worthwhile and an asset to Okehampton rather than a commercial venue. Okehampton could be dramatically improved by just one theatre. Please give Okehampton the chance to be recognised and become a much nicer place to live. Becky Quance-Woodland (aged 16) Amy Chapman (aged 14)
