A local musical theatre company is facing financial risk and has launched a campaign to raise £30,000 after a hike in production costs and a drop in ticket sales.
Frome Musical Theatre Company (FMTC, formerly Frome Amateur Operatic Society) has been performing in Frome since 1906. However, the group has said an increase in the cost of sound, lighting, costumes, orchestra and performance rights, along with a drop in ticket sales, has put the company’s future productions at risk.
They also said that putting on their annual pantomime and spring show now costs up to £50,000 each and at their spring show, Anything Goes, they lost £20,000 due to audience attendance being much lower than expected, at just 40%.
Chairman of FMTC, Andy Tawse, said, “We have always tried to keep ticket prices to a minimum but we are now asking for help from our members and audiences. We are desperately sad to be in this situation and hope that through our fundraising efforts and with the support of the town, we can continue to provide entertainment for the people of Frome and the surrounding area.
“FMTC shows have always been self-supported and only ever relied on the revenue from ticket sales, with any profits made being put back into youth development through Spellbound (youth group), donated to the Memorial Theatre or reinvested in future shows.
“Should you wish to donate, we have set up a Go Fund Me page, or you can send cash or a cheque made payable to FMTC to the theatre box office in an envelope marked clearly Frome Musical Theatre Company.”
There are various ways in which the community can help:
- Become a Vice President in 2025
- Donate to and share our Go Fund Me page https://gofund.me/e82edd16
- Become a sponsor
- Consider approaching your company for sponsorship
- Hold a fundraising event
Finally, the executive committee is working hard to ensure the future of FMTC and hopes that you are able to support the campaign in any way possible. If you would like to get in touch about the fundraising campaign, please email Fmtcfundraising@outlook.com.
The company is currently rehearsing for the pantomime Sleeping Beauty and urge people to book soon to avoid disappointment. Performances run from Saturday 28th December to Saturday 4th January at the Frome Memorial Theatre.
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