The Lindsey Rural Players are the in-house production company of The Broadbent Theatre in Wickenby near Lincoln.
The theatre is a unique local arts and entertainment venue in the heart of rural Lincolnshire, supporting local performing groups, small amateur touring companies, artists and musical groups.
Income from performances at the small, 100-seat community theatre supports the charity’s Youth Theatre. This provides an outlet for young people to learn about the creative arts and take part in musical theatre, enhancing their confidence and social skills.
It operates entirely with volunteers and currently has around 25 active volunteers who help to meet and greet at shows, act on stage, run the tech gallery and build stage sets.
Money from The Duncan & Toplis Foundation will help to renovate the theatre car park, making it safer and more accessible. Situated in a field, the car park becomes waterlogged and it can be muddy, slippery and very dark in winter months. By renovating the car park, the charity will make it easier for people with accessibility issues to attend shows, resulting in increased visitor numbers and funds.
Mike Martin, Trustee and Treasurer at Lindsey Rural Players, said:
“From all of us at The Broadbent Theatre, we send our sincere and warmest thanks for the kind donation from The Duncan & Toplis Foundation. Your generosity will help us to reach our goal of renovating and enhancing our community theatre car park - installing proper drainage, putting up new lighting, laying new shingle, adding disabled bays and replacing the signage.
“This will allow more visitors to discover this hidden arts and entertainment gem in the Lincolnshire countryside, helping us to safeguard the future of the venue and allow the Youth Theatre to flourish.”
Kay Botley, Duncan & Toplis Director and Trustee of The Duncan & Toplis Foundation, added:
“It’s a pleasure to be offering this funding to Lindsey Rural Players and it’s clear how much of a difference it’s going to make to the charity. We understand the importance of arts and creativity for young people and can hopefully come along and enjoy a performance soon!”
You can find out more about Lindsey Rural Players and The Broadbent Theatre here.
