When Phil Sage first picked up a broom at New Theatre Cardiff as a schoolboy, he could not have imagined that the part-time help would turn into a 50-year career. The venue’s buildings and maintenance manager has now reached that remarkable milestone, celebrated by a gathering of former and current colleagues who praised his enduring dedication to one of Wales’ best-known theatres. His story is woven into the very history of the building.
From Schoolboy Errands to Official Employment
Phil’s connection to the theatre began through family ties. His mother joined the staff, and while he was still studying at college, he began helping out during evenings and weekends. That initial experience led to an official start in 1976, when he took on a permanent role. In those early days, he was often found behind the bar in what was then the old stalls bar, a space now known as the Richard Burton Room.
Over the years, his duties expanded well beyond the stage. He worked behind the bar, managed stock and even repaired theatre seats, developing a hands-on understanding of every corner of the building. His willingness to turn his hand to any task did not go unnoticed. On his 21st birthday, Phil was promoted to assistant house manager, a significant step that set the course for the rest of his career. The promotion marked the beginning of his long climb into the management team, where he would eventually take charge of the building’s upkeep and maintenance.
Five Decades of Refurbishments and Royal Visitors
During his half-century at the theatre, Phil witnessed major refurbishments that transformed the building inside and out. He also worked alongside some of the most famous names in entertainment, including Richard Burton and Tommy Cooper, both of whom graced the New Theatre stage during its golden years. The theatre’s royal connections also brought him into contact with members of the Royal Family, including His Royal Highness King Charles, Princess Margaret and Princess Diana.
Those encounters, along with the daily rhythm of theatre life, helped shape a career marked by loyalty and adaptability. As the venue evolved, Phil evolved with it, taking on new challenges while maintaining the historic character of the building. His behind-the-scenes work as buildings and maintenance manager has been crucial in ensuring that every production, from drama to musical, runs without hitch.
A Special Celebration and a Historic Gift
To mark the occasion, colleagues both past and present came together for a special celebration event. Theatre Director Stephan Stockton presented Phil with an engraved wooden flyrail cleat — a traditional peg used to secure theatre rope rigging — dating from 1906. The choice of gift was a deliberate nod to the theatre’s rich heritage and to the often unseen work that keeps productions running smoothly. It is a fitting symbol for someone whose work has always been behind the scenes, ensuring the show goes on.
Stockton spoke warmly about the event, saying: “It was great to see so many familiar faces coming together to celebrate Phil’s time here. An anniversary like this is about more than just years of service; it’s about the relationships built along the way. The warmth and affection shown by former and current colleagues alike was a fitting reflection of Phil’s impact on everyone who has had the pleasure of working with him.”
A Legacy for the New Theatre
Phil’s 50-year journey is a rare achievement in any industry, but especially in the arts, where staff turnover is often high. His ability to adapt from behind-the-bar duties to building management, while maintaining a connection to the theatre’s history, has made him a beloved figure within the New Theatre community. His half-century of service also highlights how much the theatre has changed over the years, from the old stalls bar to the present-day Richard Burton Room.
The engraved flyrail cleat now serves as a permanent reminder of his contribution — a symbol of the ropes and rigging that hold up the very fabric of theatre, much like Phil himself has done for five decades.
