Theatre raises thousands for children's charity

Princess Theatre in Hunstanton presents EACH with cheque

"You just can't put into words how precious that 7 thousand is," says Judith, who volunteers for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).  The charity supports families and cares for children and young people with life-threatening conditions across Norfolk.

"It's been our chosen charity for the last two years," explains Anna Hallard, from the Theatre, "And with families being at the heart of the charity, we felt that with all of the children's shows, and the pantomines and the Seaside Summer Special, it would really bring the charity to their attention and the importance of the work they do."

The money's been raised through bucket collections after shows at the end of last year and beginning of 2026.

"We have to fundraise more than 8 million a year, so you can see we really need all the donations we receive," Judith continues, "It changes so many people's lives, you can't put into words how precious the donations are - it will make such a difference to children and their families."

With the Sooty cast

The presentation coincides with another children's show at the theatre - Sooty, a few members of the cast take a photo with the team.  And around us the foyer is filling up with excited children (and adults!), 6 year old Oscar has his own Sweep puppet with him, and tells me, "I think they're funny!"

I also chat to Claire, who came to the panto with her family at Christmas, and who donated, "I think it's always important to give what you can.  We love the children's shows here, it's a great way to introduce little ones to the theatre.  We always went as kids." 

Image The Sooty Show

Sooty is apparently too busy between shows (redoing his make-up I'm told), but Mr Brown the caretaker has time for a quick chat.

"It's great fun, it's a no brainer when they said to me do you want to work with Sooty, of course I want to work with Sooty!  Some children have never set foot in a theatre so it's great to have things like this get them there."

Presentation images Ian Burt.  Click here for the full list of what's on at the Princess Theatre https://www.princesshunstanton...