The Acorn Theatre is a volunteer-run community theatre serving Worksop and the surrounding district. It enriches and entertains the local community by providing facilities for performers of all ages and abilities. The theatre inspires both children and adults to make theatre an active part of their lives by encouraging lifelong learning and participation.
Opened in November 2006, The Acorn features a 200-seat multi-purpose auditorium and a smaller Oak Suite, which is used for small-scale events, rehearsals, training, storage, and as overflow dressing rooms.
Resident companies at the theatre, including Cheeky Chops Theatre, The Dukeries Theatre Group, Worksop Light Operatic Society, and The Young Theatre Company (YTC), present about one-third of the shows.
The remainder of the programme is provided by a mix of professional, semi-professional, and amateur companies, along with local schools, dance schools, and other business and arts groups.
As a not-for-profit registered charity and social enterprise, the theatre operates without public subsidy. It is an equal opportunities, socially inclusive organisation that values diversity and fosters an environment where everyone is treated equally and fairly.
Since its creation 18 years ago, The Acorn has invested more than £250,000 in repairs and improvements. These include the development of the Oak Suite, the installation of retractable tiered seating in the auditorium, and most recently, a new roof. In addition to the occasional surplus after running costs, volunteers have raised thousands of pounds, and grants have been gratefully received from organisations such as the Arts Council, the Coalfields Regeneration Trust, Awards for All, Bassetlaw DC Community Grants Scheme, Worksop Lions, and their landlord. Volunteer organisations, including the Princes Trust, have also contributed resources towards improving the theatre.
The next major project is to repair, refurbish, and remodel the foyer, bar, and kitchen area, including the addition of much-needed ladies’ toilets. Currently, the theatre has only one toilet for women, leading to queues during events. The ‘Spend a Penny’ Campaign aims to raise £100,000 over the next few years, with various fundraising events planned to reach this goal.
The next event is a 24-Hour Sing-a-thon, inviting theatre users and the people of Worksop to join in for a day of themed karaoke, refreshments, games, children’s activities, and lots of fun. Starting at 6.00pm on Friday 6th September, themes have been set for each hour or half-hour and all you have to do is choose which theme takes your fancy and go along. Donation buckets will be available at the event, and a Just Giving page has been set up for online donations. The theatre is also seeking sponsors from local businesses for this event.
Everyone is encouraged to come along and support the local community theatre because, after all, ‘To Pee or Not to Pee?’ shouldn’t be the question! Keep an eye on the theatre’s social media pages for more information.