‘There’s no question of its importance’ - Dramatic society calls for support of amateur groups
The Quay Theatre in Sudbury remains closed to performers and visitors Picture: PHIL MORLEY - Credit: Archant
A Suffolk amateur dramatics group has called for more support as it remains in limbo.
The Sudbury Dramatic Society, SDS, should have been preparing for its Christmas panto, like many other amateur groups, instead like much of the performance industry they are left concerned about their venue and when they will be back in front of a crowd.
“Since the 1970s when Sudbury Dramatic Society first bought and set up what is now The Quay at Sudbury, we have been a major contributor to the theatre’s finances, by the hire of its rehearsal and performance space, by making donations and funding specific projects and in particular with the annual pantomime,” said a spokesman for the group.
“With six productions a year SDS has always had a production in rehearsal or in performance and with that contribution to the theatre’s finances comes the employment of staff, both front of house and technical, and other freelance creatives.”
Now, however, with earlier productions in the year cancelled and no end to restrictions in sight, the group are concerned as to when they may be able to get back on stage.
You may also want to watch:
“With virtually all amateur theatre productions being cancelled across the country, and given the lead time to put productions together, it is unlikely there will be many, if any, productions before the end of 2021,” said the spokesman.
MORE: Ipswich Regent beams Hollywood royalty and TV stars straight into your home
SDS said that amateur theatre was a “significant part” of the nations cultural life; helping audiences and performers with both their mental and physical health.
Most Read
- 1 'I will be like Demolition Man... there will be a lot of pain' - Cook on his Town squad overhaul
- 2 Suffolk actress Helen McCrory dies following cancer battle
- 3 Rise in number of Covid patients in Suffolk and north Essex hospitals
- 4 Frustrated Suffolk farmer returns dumped items to householders
- 5 Judge heading to Ipswich exit as contract clause could end Irishman's Portman Road stay
- 6 12 villages set to receive some of UK's fastest ever broadband
- 7 'He goes with our best wishes' - Cook confirms Judge will leave Town
- 8 Next steps outlined for decision on A12 traffic light plans
- 9 Death of 'loving' Suffolk woman in crash was 'unmitigated tragedy'
- 10 'They have big dreams... we're in great hands' - Town favourite Yallop on his links to new US owners
Several of their members have gone on to become professional performers and musicians.
“Youngsters involved grow in confidence and self-esteem,” said the spokesman.
“Amateur theatre, is very often the hub of local cultural activity as well as helping to bring communities together.
“This is a significant loss not just to Sudbury but to the cultural and economic life of the whole of the UK.
“There is no question of its importance within our local community.”
While the theatre is closed SDS have continued to rehearse through video technology and hope to create their own panto video this year.
They have also been raising more money for the Quay Theatre using their social media channels.