The show will go on! Group raises £5,000 for its next production
A CYNON Valley performing arts group has raised more than £5,000 to fund its next theatre production.
Aberdare-based Showcase will perform musical Hello, Dolly! this September – but face a £12,000 cost to stage the show.
It was agreed that half of that amount would need to be raised by members of the group, while the remaining half would be recouped through the show itself, including ticket sales.
After completing the pantomime Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves during February, members of Showcase turned their attention to raising money for the production this September – with its junior and senior sections contributing to an ambitious fundraising effort.
Five months on and the seniors have organised treasure hunts, quiz nights, concerts and raffles, while they also performed the plays Blue Remembered Hills and The Two Gentlemen of Verona.
The junior section performed Disney’s Jungle Book and a concert.
Meanwhile, Cwmdare Voices choir organised a fundraising concert for Showcase’s cause, while Y Cwtch cafe in Dare Valley County Park donated money.
Roger Williams, of Showcase, said: “We estimated it would cost approximately £12,000 to stage, including the hire of the Coliseum Theatre, a set, costumes, an orchestra and technical equipment.
“As Showcase is a notfor-profit registered char- ity, Showcase members soon realised that some fundraising would be necessary.
“A figure of £6,000 to be raised before the show was agreed.
“Due to their tireless efforts, plus the generous support of parents, patrons, partner organisations and supporters in the local community, Showcase members have raised just over £5,000 in five months.
“It’s a remarkable achievement, with more fundraising events planned for the summer. Upcoming events include an afternoon tea event and an acoustic evening.”
Showcase will perform Hello, Dolly! at Aberdare’s Coliseum Theatre from September 14 to 17.
For tickets, call 07904 430840 or 01685 879553, or the Coliseum box office.