Panto dame John Elkington was among 38 Nottingham Playhouse staff and supporters who completed a tandem skydive to raise money for the theatre’s Shine programme.
Dressed in checked pink pyjamas and gold Doc Martens complete with a red wig and full make-up, John said, “it was one of the most amazing things I’ve ever done.”
The skydivers travelled up to 14,000 feet before falling at speeds of more than 130mph for 50 seconds before their parachute opened. All were accompanied by skydiving instructors from Nottingham company Skydive Langar.
Shine is a programme of free weekly theatre sessions focusing on confidence and skills building for the likes of the Queen’s Medical Centre's hospital school, Portland College for young people with disabilities and NEST which provides education for asylum seekers and refugees.
Jess Straub, development and sponsorship manager at Nottingham Playhouse, said, “we had a brilliant day and were thrilled to get such incredible commitment from our staff and supporters.
“Our fundraising is currently at 79% of its target of £25,000 and we just need a last push to get us to our goal. Community programmes like Shine are vital to help people connect, express themselves and gain skills and confidence.”
Anyone who would like to donate should go to the Playhouse's Just Giving page.