DON'T LET AMATEUR THEATRE RETIRE - Jane Dickerson

Over the last few years I have seen several more amateur theatre productions than I care to remember. Some I loved, some were mediocre and some were just not my cup of tea, but all were a worthwhile experience in one way or another. However, there is one thing that has struck me, consistently, over the last year and that is the audience. The majority of them are of retirement age and obviously enjoy their night out, but one also notices the lack of young audience members. I am concerned that when the current supporters of their local amdram group are no longer able to attend productions, audiences will dwindle to a point where a group will no longer be financially able to stage a production.

I know of several groups who are already experiencing the problems of lack of interest, not so much from the audience point of view, although tickets sales are down on last year, but from within the group itself. By the time you read this, one group will have made a decision whether to continue at all. I hope, despite everything, they do continue, they have much to offer the local community and individual members benefit from their involvement. Groups all over the country are finding it difficult to attract new members (especially men!) and to find members that are not only prepared to act on stage, but to take on other roles as well is becoming increasingly difficult. Filling roles backstage is also tricky, most people who volunteer to help with an amdram group want to steal the limelight for themselves.

I think everyone involved with an amdram group should make it their new year's resolution (admittedly late) to actively find at least one person to join their group. Talk to people about your hobby, you'll be surprised how many people are interested in amateur theatre. Still talk to people even if you don't think they would be interested. I recently "recruited" a new backstage member by talking to her mother about amdram. After all, amateur acting is the largest hobby in the country after sport.