Friends of Doncaster Grand Theatre hold successful annual meeting

The Friends of Doncaster Grand Theatre marked a successful 12 months of progress at their annual general meeting earlier this month.

Held at The Little Theatre in East Laith Gate, and attended by committee and group members, the meeting heard about the successful completion of an oral and digitisation project, collaborative work with City of Doncaster Council and Theatres Trust, and the next steps towards the eventual reopening of the 1899 Doncaster Grand Theatre.

Ian Sunderland was elected as the group’s new chairperson, taking over from Ken Waight who stood down after two years as chair and remains on the committee. Colin Hogg accepted the position of Vice-president, while Margaret Herbert accepted the position of Honorary President for a further year.

Ian Sunderland, the Friends’ new chairperson, said: “I am supported by a very fine committee, but we would welcome anyone who can give a little of their time, and new ideas, as we continue to raise funds and keep Doncaster Grand Theatre at the forefront of everyone's minds.”

He highlighted the progress made over the past two years through partnership working.

“How things have changed in the last two years,” Ian said. “With Ken Waight at the helm and the combined efforts of Theatres Trust, the owners of the theatre and City of Doncaster Council, we have an active working party pushing ahead with plans to reopen the building as a multi-purpose venue, with live theatre at its heart.

“I have a lot to follow and I am grateful that Ken is continuing to act on our behalf with the working party.”