An Amazing Woman

The name Lilian Baylis conjures up thoughts of 'The Old Vic' and Sadlers Wells Theatres in London. Thanks to the enthusiasm and first-hand theatrical knowledge of Sarah Lenton members of Grayshott Decorative and Fine Arts Society learned so much more about the life and achievements of an amazing woman. At the tender age of 23 in1898 this indomitable unmarried woman flouted the conventions of the Victorian era and undertook the development of 'Royal Victoria Hall' in London's Waterloo. Initially it was aimed at providing 'clean and wholesome' musical entertainment for the deprived community of the area. This became the world-renowned 'Old Vic, where so many famous actors have given superlative performances.

The musical performances became Opera and Ballet and in 1931 Miss Baylis, by indefatigably fundraising, renovated the old Sadler's Wells theatre 'north of the river'. This was transformed into the home for the English National Opera and the Royal Ballet. Impressing everyone who had dealings with her, amazing and unconventional were only some of the words used to describe Miss Baylis, who died in 1937 after 40 years during which she transformed the world of the arts in London..

As well as this superlative lecture, members of the society have recently enjoyed a visit to the art galleries in Dublin and others will be going on a privately conducted tour of Hampton Court later this month. In addition the members of the Young Arts Group, led by its co-ordinator Hester Whittle, has again taken part in the Art Week at Grayshott Primary School. The children produced a wide range of colourful and imaginative work, which was on display on the last afternoon. Mid-June sees the same group participating in similar activity for the pleasure and benefit of the children of The Holme School, Headley.

If you are interested in joining Grayshott Decorative & Fine Arts Society, please contact Ray Bulman on 01730 827239.