SOUTH SOMERSET NEWS: Big things ahead for the Warehouse Theatre

THE Warehouse Theatre in Ilminster is proud of its past, but is now very much looking to the future.

The Ilminster Entertainments Society will be celebrating its 70th birthday in 2017, while it will be 30 years when the former fruit and vegetable warehouse in Brewery   Lane was transformed into a theatre.

IES chairman Bryan Ferriss said: “We have a long tradition here and it is something we need to build on.”

The IES, which runs and manages the Warehouse, wants to make it more appealing to the community and a wider audience.

Mr Ferriss said that he was disappointed to think that not everyone in Ilminster had at least visited the Warehouse once or that some people were even unaware of its existence.

The IES put on a number of productions during the year and have visiting shows and other events.

PHOTO – TOP: Ilminster Entertainments Society chairman Bryan Ferriss.

PHOTO – RIGHT: The Warehouse Theatre in Brewery Lane, Ilminster.

But times are difficult for small theatres such as the Warehouse and the IES knows it needs more support.

Mr Ferriss has said that having been up and running for nearly 30 years the Warehouse Theatre must be doing something right – but he knows that they need to look to the future to keep it successful.

The theatre auditorium seats 150 and has a fully licensed bar, coffee lounge and a T-loop hearing system – so it could be used by all sorts of different groups and organisations who might need a meeting place.

A team of volunteers run the theatre, but is always looking for extra help to maintain its upkeep.

It also has a membership scheme where people can get more involved with the theatre.

Mr Ferriss said: “There are exciting times ahead for the IES and the Warehouse and we would love to see lots of people coming to the theatre – something which Ilminster should be very proud of.”

For more information about the Warehouse Theatre phone 01460-57049 or go to www.thewarehousetheatre.org.uk.

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