Generous panto audiences dug deep and helped strike gold, raising vital funds for two key hospice charities.
Orwell Panto Group staged four performances of the family favourite Aladdin, and a cheque for just over £1,000 was recently presented to East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH). The talented troupe also supported Garden House Hospice Care.
Funds were raised through ticket sales, bucket collections, souvenir programmes and refreshments, with the total boosted by Gift Aid. An additional £450 was raised at a stall manned by three dedicated EACH volunteers.
Andy Mcfadyen, part of the production team, said: “We were happy and proud to raise as much as we did for two important charities in our community.
“In terms of EACH, it was chosen by our committee, and I feel a personal connection because of my job as Funeral Manager at Newlings of Royston.
“I’ve worked with families who have lost children and have visited Milton (EACH’s hospice in Cambridgeshire), so I know what an important charity it is. It makes a real difference, and it’s nice to be in a position to help.”
Four performances of Aladdin took place at Orwell Village Hall, near Royston. The first was on 16th January, with two on 17th January and another on 19th January.
“All four sold out, which was fantastic,” added Andy, who, as well as designing and painting sets and overseeing publicity, also played the role of Wishy Washy.
“After so much hard work and preparation, it’s a lovely feeling to go out on stage and see lots of happy, smiling faces.
“There was lots of audience participation, and everyone got into the spirit, having fun while raising as much as possible for our chosen charities.”
Orwell Panto Group is already planning next year’s panto, which will be Jack and the Beanstalk.
Victoria Goldsmith, EACH’s Senior Community Fundraiser for Cambridgeshire, said: “We’re so grateful and blown away by this generous donation.
“Every ticket bought and every coin dropped in a bucket will help make a difference to the children and families receiving our care and support.
“We can’t thank everyone enough for helping turn laughter and applause into something so meaningful.”
