UPSETTING rumours about the future of Minehead’s Regal Theatre have been challenged by the charity’s directors.

Monica Hartwell, vice-chairwoman of MATA Regal Theatre Co Ltd, dismissed stories that after almost 30 years it was going to close.

Ms Hartwell said there was an ‘army of volunteers’ who worked tirelessly to ensure West Somerset did not lose its theatre.

She said: “We are exceptionally proud of our commitment to keep the Regal Theatre run by and for our community, and many hands do make light work.

“We are actively inviting new volunteers with a broad set of skills.”

However, Ms Hartwell said it was a fact that Covid and increasing energy costs had impacted the Regal, as they had other organisations all across the country.

“While we have enjoyed more affluent times, we are striving forward to ensure that the theatre is preserved for future generations to enjoy,” she said.

“As a wonderful community resource, the Regal Theatre has an important role to play.

“Our volunteers are working together to produce a varied programme of music, drama, dance, and spectacular entertainment with performers from across our community.”

MATA took over the Regal in 1994 and secured a long-term lease from owner John Welch.

It bought the freehold from Mr Welch during the Covid year of 2021 when its unaudited accounts showed an annual profit of nearly £6,000 as the theatre bounced back from a near-£100,000 loss in 2020.

Ms Hartwell said: “Sharing a wide and varied programme of events, shows, and films for our residents and visitors is the beating heart of everything we do.”

She said this year’s programme would kick-off with a ‘Regal Variety Show’ over three days on April 21, 22, and 23.

The ‘celebratory event’ would showcase local talent and the dedicated teams of backstage crews who kept live performances flourishing.

It will be performed by the cast and members of MATA’s founding companies, the Barnstormers, Minehead Dramatic Society, Minehead Panto People, and The Waterfront Theatre Company, who will share the stage with local performers and some ‘special guests’.

Ms Hartwell said a volunteer recruitment drive had also been launched to support MATA ‘through these demanding times, as we rely entirely on volunteer contributions’.

Help was being sought from people with skills such as marketing, social media, public relations, IT, finance, business management, and building and maintenance.

Anybody who was interested could attend one of the Saturday morning coffee drop-ins between 10 am and 12 noon, or email to [email protected].

Ms Hartwell said there were many ways people could support the Regal, from making direct donations in person or via the website www.regaltheatre.co.uk, buying a ticket, becoming a ‘Friend of the Theatre’, or liking, sharing, and tagging somebody in one of the theatre’s social media posts.

She said: “We know that this is a very challenging time for all in our local community and we sincerely appreciate continued support and passion for performance.”