Why Local Theatre Matters More Than Ever

26 November 2025

The following article was written by Chloe Pickstock, a WODS (Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society) member wanting to share her story of why local theatre is important to her, and how it can be a source of creativity, safety, connection, and inspiration for young people in Worcester. Chloe's story is why the team at Worcester Theatres and WODS do what they do, our shared love for the arts not only inspires the people who perform on stage, but also audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Thank you Chloe for sharing your story with us! 

The article explores my own journey with WODS - how being part of a local theatre group helped me navigate grief after losing my dad, rebuild confidence, and find belonging again within a community. But it also looks at how groups like ours aren’t just a creative outlet; they’re vital pillars of the community.

In the piece, I touch on the ongoing struggles amateur and community theatre groups face, from rising production costs to cuts in arts funding, and how this affects our ability to put on shows, reach new audiences, and keep these spaces accessible. I also highlight the work WODS does to support local causes and charities through performances, fundraising, and community outreach-something that is often unseen but genuinely benefits Worcester.

There is no question that amateur theatre is vital to our communities. These groups enrich local culture, support personal growth, and create meaningful connections. Run almost entirely by passionate volunteers, amateur dramatic societies bring together people of all ages and backgrounds to create and enjoy the performing arts. Collectively, they produce more than 3,500 shows each year, attracting audiences of over 2 million people. From pantomimes to plays to large-scale musicals, local theatre is often the beating heart of creative life in smaller towns and cities. But beyond entertainment, amateur theatre plays a huge role in supporting mental and physical wellbeing, not just for the performers and those who take part, but for audiences too. For many communities, the local theatre is a social hub, a place where friendships form, confidence grows, and people feel connected. However, sustaining these groups requires resources that are not always available. That’s where support from audiences, volunteers, and local businesses becomes essential. Funding, participation, and visibility help these groups not just survive, but thrive.

It’s also important to remember that the value of amateur theatre isn’t measured against professional standards. Yes, the budgets are smaller and performers are unpaid, but the passion, dedication, and work ethic match any West End cast. Amateur productions make theatre accessible, affordable, and local. And don’t let the fact that it is an amateur performance fool you, as many groups produce work every bit as polished and moving as professional companies.

My Personal Journey with Amateur Theatre

For me, theatre was a childhood love that I lost somewhere in the pressure of GCSEs, A-levels, and university. As a teenager, my confidence faded, and I stopped performing. Not because I didn’t love it, but because I no longer felt good enough. The joy disappeared.

In my final year at university, I looked for volunteer experience and decided to help out backstage at a local theatre. That decision changed everything. I found BODS (Bath Operatic and Dramatic Society), who were rehearsing Fiddler on the Roof, and I quickly became involved helping with prompting for the director and supporting the costume team. I soon was immersed into the creative world again, and started to make friends and rediscover old inspirations. When Covid hit, I returned home to Worcester and eventually joined WODS (Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society). After waiting a couple of years to audition, I took the plunge for their production of The Sound of Music. I was accepted and instantly fell in love with performing again, building friendships and becoming part of a community.

Life took another turn when I travelled to America and unexpectedly lost my father. I came home devastated, lost, and suffocated by grief. After a few months, I hesitantly joined WODS again for Sister Act. I was fragile, unsure, and a very different version of myself, but the group welcomed me back with warmth. Slowly, show by show, rehearsal by rehearsal, I rebuilt my confidence. Theatre became a lifeline. It gave me distraction, joy, and community when I needed them most. It also opened doors to new hobbies and friendships, from pole fitness to Zumba to singing lessons. I eventually joined the WODS social committee, helping plan events for the group. And I soon realised I wasn’t the only one leaning on amateur theatre during a difficult time. So many members join during challenging points in their life. It becomes a space for release, laughter, creativity, and support. And it’s not only adults who benefit. Youth theatre groups offer young performers a place to grow, take risks, make friends, and discover who they are.

Why Local Theatre Needs Support

However, amateur theatre needs our support now more than ever. With the rising cost of living, many groups are struggling with falling audience numbers, reduced community engagement, high venue hire fees and increased production costs. The Covid-19 pandemic had a profound impact on theatre groups across the country. With productions halted and venues closed, many societies faced severe financial strain that they are still recovering from years later. The effects linger today, as many groups continue to struggle to rebuild momentum, facing reduced audiences, rising costs, and the challenge of re-engaging both existing members and new supporters. Yet despite these setbacks, countless societies have shown remarkable resilience, slowly rebuilding with renewed passion and deep gratitude for their community. Many societies are adapting by choosing more modern, popular titles to attract younger audiences, a necessary shift after years of relying on safer traditional shows. But this transition can be challenging without community backing.

How You Can Help

Here are some simple, meaningful ways to support local theatre:

• Attend shows. Even one ticket helps keep a production afloat.
• Share their content online. A quick repost can reach someone who might want to see or join the group.
• Take part! Perform, join the backstage crew, help with costumes, or assist with tech.
• Become a member or patron. You can support financially even if you don’t have time to be involved.
• Hire their spaces, props, and costumes. Many groups offer affordable hire options for events or creative projects.

Keeping the Curtain Up

Whether you participate as an audience member, volunteer, or performer, your involvement matters. Local theatre enriches individual lives, strengthens community bonds, and ensures the continued presence of the performing arts in our towns and cities. And if reading this makes you think, I’d love to be part of an amateur dramatic group, then please reach out to your local societies. They would be absolutely thrilled to welcome you. To learn more or find a society near you, you can visit NODA to find groups nationwide. 

Worcester Theatres is proud to work with WODS (Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society) to bring musical productions to life on the Swan Theatre stage. For more information about future WODS productions that will be performed at Worcester Theatres follow us on social media to keep updated!