As part of Volunteers’ Week, which runs from Monday 2 – Sunday 8 June, we’re shining a spotlight on the remarkable individuals who dedicate their time and energy to making our theatre such a vibrant and welcoming space.
Volunteers’ Week is an annual UK-wide campaign that has celebrated the contributions of volunteers since 1984. Now in its 41st year, the initiative provides organisations across the country with a platform to recognise the invaluable work carried out by their volunteers.
More than 100 dedicated volunteers support the day-to-day running of our venue. From ushering audiences to their seats and preparing lunches in the café, to serving drinks at the bar and helping behind the scenes, our volunteers are essential to the success of every performance, exhibition, and film screening.
One of those volunteers is Corrinne McArthur, who has been with us for six years. She’s an integral part of our Front of House team and often lends a hand in the Theatre Café & Bar. Corrinne’s passion for the theatre is clear:
“Volunteering gives me a reason to get up and out every day,” she says. “It’s flexible, so it fits around my life, and it feels good to give something back to the theatre. Volunteers really are essential to keeping it alive.”
Corrinne also remembers one unforgettable moment from a performance of Fireman Sam Live! when a fire alarm went off mid-show.
“Everyone thought it was part of the performance! Thankfully it was a false alarm, and we managed the evacuation quickly. We can all laugh about it now—the irony wasn’t lost on anyone.”
Volunteering with us is about more than just giving time; it’s about being part of something bigger. Our volunteers gain new skills, build friendships, and support the arts in Somerset. We host regular socials – from monthly lunches and quiz nights to our annual summer BBQ – to celebrate their contribution and strengthen our community.
As a registered charity, we rely on the passion and commitment of our volunteers to keep delivering exciting live events and creative opportunities for local people. New volunteers are always welcome, and we offer the chance to shadow experienced team members before committing to more regular shifts.
“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our organisation and are valuable members of the team, helping to ensure the show always goes on,” says Katherine Edwardes, Operations Manager. “We wouldn’t be the thriving venue we are today without each and every one of our dedicated volunteers.”
She adds: “We’ll be celebrating all of our volunteers’ hard work at our annual summer BBQ later this year, but we’re delighted that Volunteers’ Week gives us the opportunity to publicly thank and recognise everything they’ve done over the past 12 months.”
In 2024, we were also named Age Friendly Tourism Business of the Year at the Bristol, Bath and Somerset Tourism Awards. Sponsored by Age UK Somerset, the award celebrates tourism businesses that go above and beyond to create welcoming and inclusive experiences for older visitors.
The warm welcome our volunteers extend to every visitor played a key role in earning this recognition, and we’re proud to be giving back to Age UK Somerset this week by inviting their own volunteers to the theatre for a special behind-the-scenes tour.
If you’d like to find out more about volunteering with us, please click here or send us an email at volunteer@tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk.
