"Its quite appropriate that Cinders had a Fairy Godmother and now so do we."
Lewis Matthews
A generous donation of £10,000 from an anonymous Fairy Godmother has ensured that the people of Amble and beyond will get a Pantomime this Christmas.
The Northumberland Theatre Company (NTC) based in Amble’s Dovecote Centre are a self-funding professional small-scale touring theatre company and like every other entertainment business they have been severely financially impacted by COVID restrictions.
With only one outdoor show last year and no chance to tour, the company’s financial situation made it difficult to plan for the traditional Christmas Panto. Then, as if by magic, a letter was posted to the company together with a £10,000 cheque as Artistic Director Lewis Matthews explains:
“The lady asked us to keep her identity a secret and we don’t know her personally. All we know is that she has enjoyed our work in the past and has decided to help us out by donating this fantastic amount of money that will be used to pay for the Christmas Panto which this year is Cinderella. It’s quite appropriate that Cinders had a Fairy Godmother and now so do we. We are all very grateful.”
Lewis started his new role as Artistic Director just as lockdown one started, and his role has been a baptism of fire. His first task was to manage furloughed staff at the same time as handling the day to day running of the company – all without any shows or regular income. Now however, the Dovecote Centre hosts other community groups within its building which help the theatre financially as well as providing mutual support and shared projects.
It is anticipated that following risk assessments and Covid-proofing, the Centre will reopen to the public in early August. Forthcoming events include regular cinema showings and a production of “The Importance of Being Earnest.”
“We have been well supported by the people of Amble during the pandemic by donations, well wishes and pledges to return to see our shows but this anonymous gift has really lifted our spirits and given us the funds to guarantee that the theatre will be filled with laughter and joy this Christmas time, “said Lewis.
The Panto will take place between 17th and 31st December and tickets can be booked here; https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cinderella-the-amble-panto-tickets-162409981627
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Photo: Artistic Director Lewis Matthews and Natalie Barnes, Tours and Office Administrator in Panto mood
(Photo Highlights PR)
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