A friend, who knew that I was interested in history, suggested that I come along to a WCT workshop for the 1992 production Riotous Living at Kingston Lacy. I really enjoyed the session and the friendliness of the group. I’ve been a member ever since, actively participating in the creating and performing of subsequent productions. I love the way the productions evolve and involve the wider community, the different locations, both outside and indoors – however challenging they might be together with the camaraderie and caring and nurturing approach taken in all activities.
I particularly remember spending every performance of the 1997 Undercliff and Over Heath production wearing a wetsuit under my costume so that at the end of the play I could dash down to the beach from the Russell Coates Museum and be seen seamlessly pulling a boat containing the audience’s wishes out to sea!
I’ve learnt a lot belonging to WCT in terms of experiencing how school children learn how to be part of a team and gain self-confidence, participating with diverse members of the community and learning fascinating things about our local area. I also benefitted personally at work using the performance skills gained over the years.
I hope that community theatre generally and WCT in particular, continues to be supported by the local individuals and the community, touched by its activities however large or small.