Auditions for Copacabana

So many people give their own time freely and work so hard on amateur productions, often for very little recognition and so I am always delighted to hear of someone who has been rewarded for their efforts.

Sue Wallin, who runs Side by Side Theatre Company in Stourbridge, was awarded an MBE by Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall earlier this year for her supporting learning disabled adults in the arts services and now the theatre company themselves will be presented with The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service later this month.

In addition to all this excitement, on June 6th, volunteers from Side by Side attended a garden party at Buckingham Palace in celebration of their award. They are regularly supported by 35 willing volunteers who are instrumental in improving confidence levels and performing skills of the cast of 30 members of the group.

Sue said: "Volunteers are the lifeblood of our company and together we give upwards of 6,000 hours each year. It is fantastic that our work has been recognised in this way and we are overwhelmed and delighted to be honoured." Well done guys!

This very special group of performers is presenting Prodigal Son at Stourbridge Town Hall on June 27. Based on the biblical story, this version is interpreted in a very unique style by Side by Side, taking on a whole new meaning.

For tickets, priced at £8-£6 contact 07929352239 or visit The Well Coffee Shop in High Street, Stourbridge. For more information about Side by Side Theatre Company, visit www.sidebysidetheatrecompanystourbridge.co.uk

There's fun and laughter over in Bromsgrove as a local well-loved society, All and Sundry, present their version of the 1970's sitcom Are You Being Served? at the Artrix Arts Centre from June 19-22, so there's just time to catch it.

When Grace Brothers is closed for refurbishment, the staff go on holiday to Costa Plonka where they find themselves in the middle of a revolution! Ridiculous but hilarious!