Flash mob takes to Wolverhampton streets to highlight theatre group cuts

But, as a Wolverhampton theatrical group launches into its 30th year, its anniversary celebrations are somewhat muted.

Bosses say they fear the Central Youth Theatre is under serious threat as a result of local authority funding cutbacks.

To highlight their cause, they organised a flash mob in the city centre over the weekend. It featured music from the three decades the group has operated in.

Jane Ward, who founded CYT in 1983, said: "We have reached our 30th year but it is a very difficult time. Our very existence is in jeopardy.

"There is a real danger we might not be here for much longer."

The group, based at the Newhampton Arts Centre in Dunkley Street, is one of 42 under-threat voluntary groups in Wolverhampton, who each receive grants from the city council of between £13,500 and £300,000 a year to keep them going. Funding for such organisations is set to be cut by £1 million by next April.

In the past 30 years, thousands of youngsters have passed through the doors of CYT, many of whom are now working professionally in theatre, film and television.

Among those who turned out to support the flash mob was Tom Parry, one of the stars and writers of hit BBC3 sitcom Badults. Mr Parry, aged 33, who grew up in Fordhouses, said he owes his career to the start he had at the CYT.

"I started going to the CYT when I was 14 or 15. Jane taught me so many different aspects of theatre and even got me my first job in the business when I left university.

"A lot of us who now make our living either as performers, writers or behind the scenes, got our start through Jane, we owe her so much. I had no formal training, but my time at the CYT was life-changing and set me on my career path into comedy.

"It is important we raise awareness of the position the CYT is in to make sure it continues for years to come.

"This group does so much for people in the city like me who would not usually have access to theatrical training."

Councillor Elias Mattu, Wolverhampton cabinet member for leisure and communities, said the council would do what it could to protect services adding: "They have provided a vital service for the community for 30 years and we want to ensure that service continues. Unfortunately the financial restraints the council is currently under make this very difficult."

CYT will hold its 30th anniversary ball at Dunstall Park on Thursday night. Visit www.centralyouththeatre.org for more.