Chapter 15. Epilogue
And so – this has been my account of the story of Genesis Theatre, and especially those heady, formative, life-changing years between 1975 and 1979, when we were most active and when for everyone involved, it became a way of life. To all who ever took part in a Genesis production, whether as a member of the cast, the band, the singers; as a technician, a stage manager; or if you were involved in any other capacity – this account is dedicated to you, with enormous thanks. Our productions made incredible demands of all who took part, and it was the capacity always to go that extra mile which forged that particular spirit of commitment, togetherness and loyalty and support, which so typified what it felt like to be a part of those times, and which so distinguished Genesis from other theatre groups. It was a cause, and we all believed in it. And as well, we all had a great time doing so. Equally as strong as my memories of the shows and rehearsals are the social times, the parties (especially those in Ali's cellar), the calling round on one another unexpectedly, the weekends away together. And though, inevitably, those times could not last, they touched, I am certain, everyone who was involved: we all knew that those times were special while they were happening and took full advantage of them. And so our thoughts inevitably go out to those who are no longer with us – Nicky, Paul Arstall, Graham, Chris Shepherd, Shirley, Stevie (and others who I might not be aware of).
Finally, I began this memoir with a description of how Chris D and I first began writing songs together, and it is this relationship which has outlasted all of the others; and it is thanks to Chris that this Genesis website exists; it is he who still acts as the glue binding the memories together; and he still continues to compose great music in a range of different contexts. Who knows – maybe the two of us might still have one more collaboration left in us...?
Thank you.