THE spotlight is on Evesham Arts Centre which is becoming a thriving cultural scene with an audience capacity that is growing greater than ever.

Arts centre chairman Clive Shotton, who works in a voluntary role says he is now putting in at least 20 hours a week but there are another 50 volunteers who help keep the centre running.

Backroom

Clive also has an interest in the performing arts but likes being one of the backroom boys helping with the stage light rather than in the limelight.

"I have found a little niche for myself in the comedy plays but I am much happier doing the lighting as it's an interest I've had since my schooldays," he said.

The Centre celebrated 25 years in 2004 and is self-sufficient mainly due, says Clive, to the many unpaid workers who are dedicated and loyal to the arts.

Last year the theatre's surplus takings were reinvested back in a new sound system so that films will once again be shown from January next year.

Shared

The Arts Centre is based at Prince Henry's High School and is a shared project, with the school using it during the day as a teaching venue.

"We have use of it during holidays, weekends and evenings," he said. "It's the home of Evesham Operative and Dramatic Society and they put on shows a few times a year," he said.

Apart from the resident amateur society, Clive invites professional travelling theatres to perform and the centre is also host to tribute bands.

"This year we had an Abba tribute band and next year we have lined up a Beatles band," he said. "We put on the traditional pantomime every year in January because we think people are busy enough over Christmas and have time to relax and enjoy a show after the holiday break rather than before it," he said.

Along with the usual theatre performances, Clive likes to ensure the company works closely with all the groups in the area.

Community

"I think it's important to work with the groups in the area as it helps strengthen the community," he said. "We also put on a youth theatre for seven to 21-year-olds and that is extremely popular as they can attend theatre workshops. It gives young people a chance to get to understand the theatre," he said.