Cafe’s exhibition raises funds for Merlin

Café La Strada and local artist, Bill Jacques, joined forces with the Merlin Theatre last week, to provide a fundraising coffee and art exhibition event, to raise  much-needed funds for the local theatre.

Lots of people have found different ways to fill their time during lockdown and for Bill Jacques it has been painting. Bill is known for building some fabulous sets for FromeDrama productions at the Merlin Theatre but he is also a talented artist who has always painted watercolours, often on holiday as well as on painting days with Frome Art Society of which he is a long-standing member.

An exhibition of Bill’s  ‘Corona Collection’ opened at Café La Strada in Cheap Street on 1st July. The paintings depict scenes not only of Frome and Somerset but also of settings home and abroad where Bill and his wife, Migs, have holidayed. 

All the proceeds will be going to the Merlin to give support during this difficult time. Theatres across the country are at serious risk of closure so anything that can be done to keep them going will be an investment in their future.

Jude Kelly, owner of the landmark Café La Strada, said, “We are so excited about re-opening and very happy to house Bill’s exhibition while, at the same time, supporting the wonderful Merlin Theatre”.

Claudia White, director of the Merlin added, “This is so lovely of Bill and FromeDrama . Theatres are going to be the last to open so we really need all the help we can get. Please go to see these wonderful paintings and, if you like one, do buy it – it’s a win-win!”

Pictured: one of Bill’s painting of Cheap Street.