Watching the dress Rehearsal from a back seat in the empty theatre are producer Peter Woodham (left) and the managing director, Mr. Melville Gillam. Gillam has been the driving force at the Connaught Theatre since 1946 when he was appointed by the previous company (J. Arthur Ranks overture Players Ltd.) as secretary general. Prior to the war (when he was squadron leader in the RAF) Melville Gillam acquired extensive experience in the running of cinemas and theatres in different parts of the country, has also produced plays himself. His energy finds plenty of scope in the hundred-and-one activities which are connected with a theatre. After spending the day reading plays submitted to the theatre, watching rehearsals, assisting the technical staff, running the business side of the company and an extensive correspondence, he welcomes the theatre's patrons when the show opens at night. February 08, 1952. (Photo by Tom Blau)