Wigan Little Theatre open day with VIP guest proves a success
Wigan MP and Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, dropped into Wigan Little Theatre’s open day and saw for herself what happens behind the scenes to get a production on stage.
Local people were invited to see how volunteers create the magic of theatre, something that’s been happening at WLT for nearly 80 years.
Behind the facade of this traditional heritage building, lies a theatre company that embraces technology and develops creativity, ensuring the people of Wigan and surrounding area have access to first class theatre in the centre of their community.
Ms Nandy completed the full tour and was impressed by the enthusiasm of current members and the interest shown by the many visitors who turned up on the day.
The theatre was filled with curious newcomers who where eager to see the workings backstage and other areas which are normally closed to the public.
People were inspired by the idea that they could become part of a working theatre, no matter what their skill set.
Some had the chance to take part in a props-making workshop and were proud to take home their Hallowe’en candle creations.
There are many roles around the theatre, not just on the stage. These include, set-building and painting, prop-making and sourcing, wardrobe, lighting and sound plus all the front-of-house activities such as box office, bar and refreshments.
Chair of trustees, Anne Woolley said: “We were so pleased at the amount of people who turned up and we signed up quite a few new volunteers who we’re looking forward to working with.
“It was an honour to welcome Lisa, whose role as Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, is to champion those areas.
“She was impressed by what our valiant team of volunteers achieve and congratulated them for their efforts in providing such a broad and varied programme of entertainment in the borough.”
For more information on what’s on stage about volunteering, please visit wiganlittletheatre.co.uk