Perth Amateur Operatic Society has penned an open letter pleading for support after this year’s productions were cancelled and future plans cast into doubt.
The group had its springtime show The Wedding Singer called off and says it is unlikely members will be able to appear onstage before the end of next year.
President Anna Jellye has asked for more backing from government bodies and funders to help them restart as soon as possible, pointing out it is part of an industry which generates more than £150m in ticket sales in the UK each year, and a similar amount in the surrounding service industry.
The letter unerlines the importance of amateur theatre in local communities.
It says: “Amateur theatre plays a significant part in the cultural life of the nation, helping with both physical and mental health, not just for the performers and all taking part, but for audiences too.
“At the present time, virtually all amateur theatre productions have been cancelled across the country. Given the lead time for productions, it is unlikely there will be many, if any, productions before the end of 2021.
“This is a significant loss to the cultural and economic life of the UK. Many groups have been making use of technology to keep in touch, rehearse, or put together videos to entertain their audiences via social media channels. They are eager to maintain their involvement and to resume a normal programme as far as they can.
“My plea to you today, is to please give the amateur theatre sector the same consideration as that of the professional theatres.”
