#SupportLocal: Theatre in Skegness fighting to keep arts alive

Filming of Neverland Theatre's first socially distanced show Alice in Wonderland, which will be free to view at the end of the month. No actors met during filming, with the exception of Tommy and Rolllo (pictured), who are from the same family.

Just a few months ago the future of the Neverland Theatre was uncertain, with its founder Gary Starr facing difficult choices.

In spite of being in the town at the back of Argos in Prince George Street.for five years presenting a variety of shows for all the family, the theatre struggled to get the support it needed.

Gary's other work locally as a writer and producer was also drying up.

Gary Starr looking forward to re-opening the Neverland Theatre.

"After writing the incredibly successful pantomimes, Aladdin and Cinderella, for the Embassy Theatre, they decided to go in a different direction, which meant I was no longer required," explained Gary.

"As a professional pantomime producer for over 25 years, it seemed insane to tour shows all over the UK each year to other theatres and prestigious venues but close down our own theatre,

"So with that in mind, we’ve decided it's time to show Skegness what we do."

The new investment comes at a time many theatres across the country are closing.

"Theatre has always been a tough and precarious industry, but more so now during the Covid-19 pandemic, with many venues across the UK and around the world facing closure and bankruptcy," said Gary.

"We aim to not only survive but to return bigger and better.

"For those who say 'we didn’t know you were here', we’ve been here five years, providing the best in plays, comedy nights, pantomimes and variety.

"We are a small 70-seat, self-funded, independent theatre, whose mission is to keep the arts alive by providing affordable shows of all genres, including variety, comedy, plays, pantomimes and shows, both professional and amateur.

"In anticipation of our re-opening, as soon as it's safe to do so, we’ve already made many improvements.

"Firstly, a new raked seating system meaning you’ll always get the best views. New sound and lighting has been added to give you that full theatrical experience and, on top of all that, a brand new box office awaits you as you enter our magical world.

"We’re so excited with all our new changes and we can't wait for you all to see it!

“Theatre and the arts must survive”

Many additional social distancing changes have been put in place ahead of theatres being allowed to re-open to keep both the audience and cast safe.

These include

• Limited Audience - In the event of social distancing remaining in place once the theatre re-opens, the box office system will automatically remove seats for sale, keeping a safe distance around available seats.

• New sanitiser hand stations in all areas

• Temperature checks on entry

In the meantime, filming is taking place of Neverland Theatre's first socially distanced show, Alice In Wonderland, which will be free to view at the end of the month

Gary said: "This is the first of our big Creative TV projects for this year and will be available to watch in July. Our progress can be seen by liking our Facebook page."

There are also plans for a Christmas pantomime. "This Christmas, for the first time in our five-year history, we’re proud to announce we’re bringing to Skegness a brand new Christmas Pantomime at the Neverland Theatre," said Gary.

Gary Starr Pantomimes will be announcing this year's Pantomime extravaganza at the Neverland Theatre very soon.