Devoteed volunteers lend a hand for revamp of Kings Theatre

But it would not have been possible without the Southsea theatre’s passionate team of volunteers.

Hundreds of hours were put in by the unpaid workforce to help preserve the Edwardian theatre on Albert Road.

The team, under the watchful eye of the theatre’s technical director Ian Pratt, were arranged into work parties, where they followed a set plan to ensure that their valuable time was used efficiently.

In an admirable display of teamwork and dedication to the theatre, the teams got straight to work on lagging all the hot and cold pipes backstage, clearing out stores and getting rid of rubbish.

Volunteers also lent a hand applying a lick of paint, giving the theatre that showbiz sparkle before its autumn season of varied entertainment commenced.

This includes the big upcoming pantomime production of Jack and the Beanstalk.

While professional contractors were also brought in by the Kings to revamp the dress circle toilets with the support of the Give Pounds To Spend A Penny initiative, the efforts of the volunteering team were invaluable to help with the upkeep of the theatre.

Mike Williams, from the Kings Theatre Trust, praised their work and persistence.

He said: ‘This theatre has a fantastic team of volunteers who have a passion for the Kings and work tirelessly to continue the ongoing restoration and maintenance work. We would be lost without them and their support is hugely appreciated.’

If you are interested in joining the team of volunteers at the Kings Theatre, contact Carrole Coles on [email protected].