As part of Volunteers’ Week, Taunton Brewhouse is shining a spotlight on the remarkable individuals who dedicate their time and energy to making the theatre a vibrant and welcoming hub.
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.
At Taunton Brewhouse, over 100 volunteers support the day-to-day operations of the venue. From ushering audiences to their seats and preparing meals in the café, to serving drinks at the bar and making the magic happen backstage, these committed individuals are at the heart of every performance, exhibition and screening.
Among them is Corrinne McArthur (pictured), who has been volunteering at the Brewhouse for the past six years, taking on roles across the front of house team, including the theatre café and bar: “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 recalls one particularly memorable shift during a performance of Fireman Sam Live! when a fire alarm unexpectedly interrupted the show: “Everyone thought it was part of the performance! Thankfully it was a false alarm, and we were able to manage the evacuation quickly. We can all laugh about it now – the irony wasn’t lost on anyone.”
Volunteering at Taunton Brewhouse offers far more than just work experience. It’s a chance to learn new skills, support the arts in Somerset and meet like-minded people. Social activities including regular lunches, quiz nights and barbecues help to strengthen the sense of community among the team. Volunteers also enjoy perks such as complimentary tickets, training opportunities, and discounts on food and drink.
As a registered charity, the support of volunteers helps the organisation to continue delivering an exciting mix of live theatre, film, exhibitions, and creative opportunities. New volunteers are always welcome and are offered the chance to shadow experienced team members before committing to regular shifts.
“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our organisation and are valuable members of the team, helping to ensure the show always goes on,” said Katherine Edwardes, Operations Manager at the Brewhouse. “From checking tickets front of house and serving our range of local produce on the bar, to preparing and serving food in our bustling café and helping to maintain the fabric of the building from behind the scenes, we wouldn’t be the thriving venue we are today without each and every one of our dedicated volunteers.
“We will be celebrating all of our volunteers’ hard work at our annual summer barbecue later this year, but I’m delighted that Volunteers’ Week allows us to publicly thank and praise all of our volunteers for their hard work and support over the last 12 months.”
For more information about volunteering at Taunton Brewhouse, please visit www.tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk/support-us/volunteer or email volunteer@tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk.
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