Fools and Horses star John Challis urges people to help save Kidderminster theatre
"Help save the Rose, you know it makes sense" - that's the message from actor John Challis, patron of the popular theatre in Kidderminster.
John, who is best known for his portrayal of Boycie in Only Fools and Horses, has made an impassioned plea for people in the Wyre Forest area and beyond to get behind their local theatre and help it to survive.
Like theatres across the country the doors of The Rose have been closed because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
John today helped launch a crowdfunding appeal for the beloved theatre – where he first trod the boards.
He said: "These are troubled times for the theatre community and, like many, the Rose has had no income for a year and desperately needs people's support to get back on its feet.
"There is light at the end of the tunnel as there are plans to open as soon as it is safe to do so and with people's help this is possible."
Bob Graham, chairman of The Nonentities Society, said that to keep the theatre going, maintained and the bills paid cost about £1,000 each month.
He said: "The recent Government announcements have given hope that The Rose will be able to open later this year but this is likely to be to restricted audiences and so the figures just do not add up.
"We need the support of our members, our audiences and anyone who has ever seen a show or been involved in a show to help us in our appeal.
Another branch of the theatre has also been affected by the closure.
Becca Williams, a teacher with Kidderminster Rose Young People's Theatre, has also made a plea for money to help pay the bills.
She said: "The young people have done so well keeping together as a group during the pandemic.
"We have done lots of work via Zoom and posted on YouTube but we really want to plan for when we can meet again at The Rose.
"The other youth leaders and I have been working voluntarily this term so we can keep the group going.
"We would be really grateful for any support."
To see more of Boycie and a reminder of the work the theatre does and to find out how to donate, people can log on to crowdfunder.co.uk/rosetheatre
By Sue Smith
