Musical societies, dance schools and friends of Newport’s Dolman Theatre, have come together to take part in a Performathon streamed live and for free on YouTube.
The 24-Hour event featuring drama, musical performances and dance began at 6pm on Saturday evening to raise money for funds for the Newport Theatre, which had to close its doors to the public since the Welsh government pandemic restrictions were launched in March 2020.
A hub of performing arts and amateur theatre in South Wales, the purpose built and self-funded theatre originally opened its doors in 1967.
The theatre’s exterior has particularly suffered in the last year and currently needs urgent funding for a new roof, of which the theatre believes costs could exceed £90,000.
High Profile Support For Newport’s Dolman Theatre
Messages of support on Twitter have come from well-known actors Michael Sheen and Newport actor, Gareth David-Lloyd.
Welsh actor and producer Michael Sheen tweeted: This lovely theatre where I watched so many shows growing up needs help. Support the Dolman Theatre Perform-athon – 10th & 11th July 2021
Former Torchwood star Gareth David-Lloyd who played Ianto Jones in the series tweeted:” This theatre was my creative birthplace. Thankyou @michaelsheen for endorsing it’s survival. Without the Dolman Theatre there’d be no Ianto.”
- Supporters can still make a donation to the Dolman Theatre via gofundme/f/dolman