March 12, 2001 11:01: How long does it take to perfect the line The names Bond. James Bond? And how many rehearsals are a prerequisite for a gravity-defying leap from a high security building through a bullet-proof window into a moving speedboat? Sean Connery may have had to move fast to master the role, but Pierce Brosnan, the latest 007 agent, was given years to practise.

Watching Ian Flemings creation on the big screen for the very first time at Putneys cinema was Pierce Brosnans first taste of his fate. But to seal that fate, the former Elliot schoolboy was given a helpful shove towards stardom courtesy of Putneys little-known Group 64 Youth Theatre.

Now scores of teenagers are signing up for weekly classes and holiday workshops, desperate for a chance to flex their thespian muscles and feel the spring of the boards under their feet.

A lively bunch ranging from 14 to 19 year olds have barricaded themselves into a studio to thrash out the story of Jake, a teenager with an eating disorder.

I take a peek around the door to see writer of Snack, Oliver Snowball, and director of youth theatre Claire Rawson-MacKenzie, giving these youngsters a chance to improve their confidence and have a bash at acting in a fun environment, far removed from the darling-luvvie world of stage school.

The venue is Putney Arts Theatre, a growing enterprise, which is dragging itself out of obscurity. With a history stretching back as far as 1968, it is a wonder that so few seem to know about it.

Group 64 first set up home 31 years ago in the dilapidated, pigeon-infested Union Church which sits on the corner of Ravenna Road and Upper Richmond Road. Following involvement from one-time Mayor of Wandsworth Eleanor Goodrich, the crumbling spires were christened the Goodrich Theatre at an opening attended by patron Sir John Mills.

Since then various grants and legacies have been ploughed into the churchs resurrection and subsequent transformation into a 155-seat theatre with a 50-seat studio and a green room, all with wheelchair access.

Its next step is to take a leaf out of the West Ends book the theatre is no longer prepared to be ignored.

And a 10-foot illuminated sign will beckon those not in the know to take a step through the austere oak door of Putneys one and only theatre.

If they take the chance, a warm welcome is on the other side from the general manager and force behind the theatres bid for a place in the spotlight.

Marie Darker, one-time theatre company founder, has brought her breadth of experience in theatre, drama and film to her post.

Since she started 18 months ago, she has overseen the growth of the adult theatre group, Putney Theatre Company, which delivers up to eight performances every year.

Its productions such as Under the Stars by Richard Crane and Once In A Lifetime by Moss Hart and George S Kaufman, staggered with shows by professional theatre companies, Tremor Cordis and The Really Useless Theatre Company, have filled this years diary.

Marie is already taking bookings for 2002. But she is determined to hold on to amateur productions, a facet which make it unique in an area where other theatres will only host professional acts.

We try to come up with a balance between amateur groups and community groups, she says.

I see this place as becoming the heart of Putney. There is such a lovely atmosphere here. The facilities are pretty special and the stage would be the envy of a lot of fringe venues.

Her hopes to build on the existing 200 or so adult members demand new ways of drawing people who would not necessarily be interested in the theatre.

Gallery

One project which has done just that, invites local artists to exhibit in the foyer. The first gallery proved a big hit in the run-up to Christmas and there are more expansion plans in the pipeline.

Room space is being snatched up by a host of clubs from yoga groups to neighbouring drama schools, and singing and acting workshops.

There is even the chance to hone newborn thespians skills within months of them leaving the womb. Classically-trained professional actor Sarah Randall runs a programme called Rhymetime Music and Drama designed to build an early understanding of beat, rhythm and tempo for tots from 12 to 18 months.

For a taste of what else is on offer take a peek behind the doors or check out the Diary page in our sister paper the local Guardian for forthcoming productions.

l For more details on theatre groups call 020 8788 6943.

By.Marie Jackson