A community theatre is appealing for people to join its unsung 'cast' of helpers who work away from spotlight to help it stage drama, cinema and music.
Sheringham Little Theatre has an army of about 80 folk who give their time for a variety of roles from usher duties and selling programmes to distributing posters and serving in the coffee bar.
Now it is looking to bolster the ranks, and is particularly keen to find those who can tackle: Fundraising – ideas and organisation; handyman and maintenance work to keep on top of minor repairs; backstage crew roles from props to scenery – and even stage management for local productions; and costumes – laundry, ironing and repairs.
Theatre director Debbie Thompson said: 'Without our marvellous volunteers we simply could not survive.
'If we had to pay for all the things they do it would just not be affordable. But we are a Little Theatre with big ambitions and we want do more in the community we serve – and we need more people to help us.
'Some of the jobs need some skills, but enthusiasm and time are just as important.'
Mrs Thompson said the theatre was particularly keen to set up a fundraising team, who could come up with ideas for events, organize and run them and encourage the community to hold money-spinning functions to support their local theatre.
There was a real sense of team spirit and family among the volunteer team and the theatre ran social events during the year, she added. Volunteers also get invitations to private events at the theatre.
Long-standing helper Wendy Austin, who is the theatre's volunteer champion, and helps in the Hub coffee bar with husband Graham, said: 'We love the theatre and want to support it and the local community. It is great to meet other people – from the public to other volunteers.
She also provides 'digs' for visiting actors throughout the year – and the theatre is also looking for more people to house cast members particularly during the summer drama and panto seasons.
Anyone interested in volunteering can contact Wendy Austin on 01263 822429 or drop into the box office for a chat about volunteering. Anyone able to help with accommodation should call the theatre or 01263 822117.
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