Tewkesbury's The Roses Theatre turns 50 in 2025 — and it's asking the local community to share their memories and mementoes as part of the celebrations.
It is launching its '50 Years of Stage & Stories' project this April 2025 to capture the highlights of its history from the perspective of its audiences.
The theatre has been central to the community since 1975, providing a diverse choice of entertainment, as well as opportunities for local people to get involved in a variety of activities from singing groups to its flagship youth theatre programme, Roses Young Creatives.
Its stage has played host to huge names like Eric Morecambe, Michael Palin, Robert Lindsay, Bill Bailey even Hollywood star Charlton Heston, whose most iconic role was the leading man in the 1968 film Planet of the Apes.
The Roses Theatre's director, Jessica Brewster, said: 'We have big plans to make 2025 the biggest year yet for Tewkesbury’s community theatre. Uncovering our audiences’ memories of the best moments from our past is a huge part of that: We want to hear all your heartwarming, funny and even cheeky stories!
'We’ve had plenty of famous faces on our stage and we’d love to hear from people who remember them. Mementoes — ticket stubs, letters, programmes — are especially welcome.
'We’re also keen to record the everyday life of the theatre — every amateur group and local performer and pantomime is part of a big, exciting story. We want to hear about the friendships made here and the good times we’ve all shared.'
The anniversary comes at a pivotal time, with live venues across the UK facing increasing challenges. A recent report from UK Theatre revealed that one in five venues are in need of significant investment in order to continue operating, with 43 venues currently on The Theatre Trust's Risk Register in 2025.
But in spite of these challenges, The Roses Theatre is thriving, largely due to the support it has cultivated in the community.
Marketing manager, Hannah Grainger, said: 'Theatres like ours promote wellbeing and connection across our communities and they’re great for the local economy. From youth theatres to pantomimes, we bring so much to our local towns. The support of the public, our audiences and donors will ensure we’re able to deliver these benefits for years to come.'
Anyone wanting to share their memories can pick up a Stage & Stories card at The Roses Theatre box office, or visit rosestheatre.org.
