I have been a regular visitor at The Dukes Theatre throughout all stages of my life. My parents took me when I was little, then as a student in Lancaster I went to anything and everything offered at a student discounted price. Now as a mum, I look forward to taking my little one at every given opportunity and he loves it every single time!

It was a pleasure to meet the new Chief Executive, Chris Lawson alongside Carl Woodward, head of Creative Communities last week to catch up on all of the amazing upcoming events at The Dukes and to talk about the theatre sectors recovery from the impact of the pandemic and now the mitigating challenges of the rising cost-of-living, leaving people with less money to spend on doing the things they enjoy.

Carl Woodward, Head of Creative Communities for the Dukes Theatre adds: “We were delighted to welcome Cat and share with her the things The Dukes is doing with communities across Lancaster and Morecambe including creative work with local older people that contributes towards wellbeing, supporting young people to find their voice, and ensuring a new and diverse generation of audiences can enjoy the benefits of a lifelong relationship with theatre and the arts.” 

The Dukes truly is an epicentre for culture and the arts across Lancashire, offering live theatre, cinema and training opportunities, both developing and bolstering local talent.

This Theatre is one which engages with its community and recognises the importance of reaching out to all areas, especially where people may be disconnected from the arts. Chris and Carl were telling me all about the Dukes Youth Theatre which has company bursaries in memory of Lottie Edwards.

Lottie was a member of The Dukes Youth Theatre from the age of 7, she had an affinity for performing and was passionate that no child should miss out on the opportunity to take part in the. Lottie tragically lost her life far too young in 2019, but in her legacy Lottie’s Young Company Bursary spaces have been made possible due to the amazing fund raising efforts of her family and friends. You can donate to this cause here.

Beneficiaries of the bursaries are children whose circumstances prevent them from being able to engage and participate in the arts. We know how important it is for children’s development and mental health to have creative outlets and so many children have and will continue to thrive with The Dukes and because of this amazing bursary in Lottie’s name.