New Theatre Cardiff has celebrated a rare milestone this week as Buildings and Maintenance Manager Phil Sage marked 50 years of service at the venue.
Current and former staff gathered for a special event honouring Phil’s decades‑long contribution to the theatre, sharing stories, memories and plenty of laughter from across his half‑century behind the scenes.
As part of the celebration, Theatre Director Stephan Stockton presented Phil with an engraved wooden flyrail cleat dating back to 1906, an original feature from the theatre’s opening year. In a light‑hearted tribute, one of Phil’s favourite boilers has also been officially named after him.
Stephan said the occasion reflected the impact Phil has had on generations of colleagues. “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.”
Phil’s connection to the New Theatre stretches back long before he joined the staff. His mother began working there in 1969, and as a schoolboy he spent countless hours helping behind the bars, stocking vending machines and assisting with events.
He officially started work in 1976, just days after leaving school, balancing evening and weekend shifts with college studies. Over the years he took on almost every role imaginable — from repairing seats and painting dressing rooms to managing stock, fixing toilets and supporting stage crews.
Phil was promoted to Assistant House Manager on his 21st birthday, a moment he still describes as one of the proudest of his career.
He also witnessed major changes at the theatre, including Cardiff Council taking direct control in 1985 and the extensive refurbishment of 1987–88. Through it all, he remained a constant presence.
Phil in the early ’80’s – in the old stalls bar – which is now the Richard Burton Room
His five decades have brought him into contact with some of the biggest names in entertainment. Phil recalls conversations with Richard Burton during the 1981 Royal Variety Performance, and welcoming Princess Margaret and Princess Diana on separate visits. He also met stars including Marlene Dietrich, Bette Davis, Tommy Cooper, and Morecambe and Wise — with Cooper even sending him a signed photograph months after a chance meeting.
Phil also spent more than 35 years working alongside the Welsh National Opera, which was based at the New Theatre for generations.
Despite the celebrity encounters, Phil says the people who made the biggest impact were the colleagues and audiences who filled the building over the years.
In a reflection shared at the event, he said the theatre had become his “second home”, adding “The New Theatre has never just been a workplace for me. It has been my life, my community and my family.”
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