At 120 years old, the Victoria Theatre in Halifax is one of the oldest theatres in Yorkshire and one of the most architecturally interesting.
The Victorian theatre is difficult to maintain in these cash–strapped times and the Council is setting up a Friends scheme so that local people can contribute their skills and experience towards its upkeep.
Training and support will be provided to the volunteers whose efforts will increase the profile of the theatre, raise funds for improvements and contribute to programming and marketing.
All are welcome to become Friends, irrespective of age or experience, and Friends will benefit from social events and activities, meeting new people, learning about the theatre and developing new skills behind the scenes.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Communities, Cllr Susan Press, said, “we’re looking for a group of like-minded people to come together and take centre stage in helping to build support in the community for this much-loved asset.
“There’s already been a lot of interest in the scheme, and this is an exciting time for the venue. Along with Council support, the Friends group will look at a range of ideas to help us maintain this historic and well-loved theatre in the heart of our community.”
The Victoria Theatre is holding a drop-in open day on 28 January from 11AM for anyone interested in participating in the Friends scheme. Further information is available online or Calderdale Council may be contacted by e-mail at [email protected].