Masons donation boosts theatre youth work

A youth drama production at Sheringham Little Theatre has been given a boost by a donation from a local Masonic lodge.

Alice in Wonderland is being staged from July 20-21 by a 13-strong cast aged from 12 to 18.

Funding it has been helped by a £700 gift from the Sheringham Masonic Lodge number 6021.

It is one of three donations being made by this year’s Worshipful Master Jim Ramshaw, who has also chosen to help a Cambodian orphanage, which he supports through regular visits, with a £1000, and a further £700 for Amyloidosis research into a rare disease which involves protein build up in people’s organs.

Mr Ramshaw from Fakenham, but who used to run the Bonavista guest house in Cromer, said he was a regular visitor to the theatre, and had it suggested to him as a good cause by town councillor Madeleine Ashcroft who is a theatre trustee.

Theatre director Debbie Thompson thanked Jim and the Masons for their gift which she said would be a huge help to funding the Alice production and the theatre’s youth work.

She said: “We are very grateful for this generous donation we rely on funding to be able to provide drama activities and opportunities for young people. The Town Council support our weekly sessions and this donation will allow us to provide proper costumes, sets and props for our showcase productions.”

Alice in Wonderland shows are at 7.30pm on Sunday July 20 and Monday July 21. For tickets click here or call the box office on 01263 822347.

The cast are from the theatre’s Act One youth drama groups which will close for the summer after the show, and resume on September 8 each Monday night in term time. For Group 1 (ages  8-11) and Group 3  (11-12) no need to book just turn up. A Focus Group (12-18) more focused on acting training, is entry via audition only, email dramagroups@sheringhamlittletheatre.co.uk for more information. Sessions are £5 at the Lighthouse Community Church.