Stage is set for Devizes theatre open day (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Stage is set for Devizes theatre open day

4:00pm Friday 15th March 2013 in News

One of the few amateur theatre companies in the West Country with its own premises is looking for volunteers to help keep up its semi-professional standards.

The Wharf Theatre, in Devizes, developed from the Devizes Amateur Dramatic Society which was founded just after the end of the Second World War.

It is holding an open day later this month to show people what it has to offer.

The company had several homes before it was granted a lease by Kennet District Council for its existing premises on Devizes Wharf.

In recent years it has strived to maintain very high standards but has to rely on the goodwill of a small group of dedicated individuals.

Publicity officer Alison Radevsky said: “We never have enough people to do everything we want.

“People are always coming up with wonderful ideas for projects but we don’t have the wherewithal to make them happen.”

The company is particularly keen to find a replacement for their sound and lighting designer, Paul Snook, who is standing down after several years. Mrs Radevsky said: “Light and sound are crucial. You can’t do anything without them.

“We are organising an open evening on Friday, March 22, at 7.30pm, when we are offering guided tours around the theatre. We hope people will become sufficiently interested in what they see to get involved. Full training will be given.

“There are other ways you can help, either front of house or backstage. Please come along.”