Theatre group tots up £120,000 for good causes in Mansfield

The whopping total has been reached by Mansfield Hospital Theatre Group, who held its annual presentation evening recently, celebrating the success of its 2015 pantomime Aladdin.

This year £4,250 was donated, with the main beneficiary being the Nottingham Blood Bikes, who received a cheque for £2,500.

Chairman, Trevor Morley said: ”The whole aim of the society is to raise money for charities and worthy causes which support the local Mansfield community.

“This would not have been possible without the continued support of our audiences, together with sponsorships from local organisations.”

The Troupe’s new Director, Chris Evans announced that the 2016 pantomime would be another traditional favourite, Robin Hood and Babes in the Wood, written once again by Alan P Frayn.

Trevor Morley said: ”Chris has an infectious enthusiasm allied to a real talent and the Troupe is looking forward to continued success under his guidance.”

Other beneficiaries at the presentation at MTFC Kevin Bird Suite, were 5th Mansfield Sea Scouts who received £1,000, Clinic 5 Cardio Respiratory at King’s Mill Hospital awarded £500 and The Brunts Academy who were presented with £250.

The troupe was born after revues staged by doctors and staff at Mansfield hospitals to entertain fellow workers petered out in the late 1970s.

Around 3,000 panto tickets are sold each year.

Businesses also provide sponsorship to provide 50/100 tickets for local schools to see the show for free.

Sponsors this year included Purpose Media; Mansfield Town Football Club; Imprint; Adkin Sinclair; The Co-Operative Funeralcare; TTS Charity Foundation and Weldec Decorators.

Trevor added: “The Troupe is immensely proud of its achievements over the last 36 years, having built up a reputation for putting on a high quality pantomime that attracts an audience of all age groups and provides excellent family entertainment.

“The membership on and off-stage consists of youngsters through to golden oldies,

“The cast ranges from 13 years to past pensionable age, who all work together to produce a quality, ‘professional’ show.

“We have six senior dancers from Happy Feet and six junior ones, aged six to seven years.

A tremendous amount of hard work is required but we also have an awful lot of fun along the way.

“It is nice to get the youngsters involved and give them an opportunity to do live theatre.”

Robin Hood and Babes in the Wood opens at the Palace Theatre at 2.15pm (matinee only) and continues January 25-30 at 7.15pm. Tickets £8 and £7 (concessions).