Looking for something after Easter? Here’s what’s coming up in local theatre
As the Easter holidays come to an end, many families find themselves asking the same question: what next?
Another club, another activity, another way to keep young minds engaged.
But in a world of screens and scrolling, there’s something different about theatre. It’s not just about learning lines or singing songs — it’s about stepping into a room full of people and creating something together.
And for many, that experience can be transformative.
At Alderley & Wilmslow Musical Theatre Company (AWMTC), that transformation has been happening for nearly 80 years. Founded in 1947, with its first production in 1948, the company has grown into a vibrant, welcoming community of performers, volunteers and supporters — all brought together by a shared love of theatre.
Because theatre isn’t just about what happens on stage.
It’s the friendships formed during rehearsals. The nerves (and excitement) just before the curtain rises. The sense of achievement when it all comes together. And for many people — especially young people — it’s a powerful boost to confidence and wellbeing.
One member puts it simply: “Joining AWMTC has given me so much confidence. I’ve made great friends and love being part of such a vibrant group of people.”
A first step into the spotlight
This May half term, AWMTC is inviting young performers to experience that feeling for themselves.
Across two days (27–28 May), Lostock Hall Primary School in Poynton will be transformed into the magical world of The Wizard of Oz — with a touch of Wicked thrown in for good measure. Children will spend the workshop singing, dancing and acting, before performing in a show for family and friends at the end.
But beyond the final performance, it’s about something bigger.
It’s about giving children the chance to try something new, build confidence, and make friends in a supportive environment where everyone gets a chance to shine.
And the impact is clear: “Thank you so much for a fantastic two days!” “My daughter loved it!” “It was wonderful how everyone got to do everything they wanted to do.”
Workshops like this are also vital fundraisers for the charity — helping to ensure AWMTC can continue offering opportunities like this for years to come.
From first steps to full productions
For those who catch the theatre bug, those first steps can lead to something much bigger.
Although AWMTC is an adult society, young performers regularly take to the stage as part of larger productions — most recently in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, where they were described as:
“An absolute pleasure to work with… such talent.”
“All of the children acted their hearts out and were absolute superstars.”
That same sense of passion and energy runs through everything the company does — and there’s plenty coming up this year.
On 6 June, AWMTC will be performing at Wilmslow Live, celebrating local talent as part of a fantastic community event.
Later that month (25–27 June), From Screen to Stage arrives at Heald Green Theatre — a lively showcase of musical numbers that began life on the big screen, brought to life on stage.
There’s also a one-night-only cabaret evening at Manchester Rugby Club in Cheadle Hulme on 22 August — an intimate night of show tunes and live performance.
And in November, the company takes on one of its biggest shows yet: We Will Rock You at The Evans Theatre in Wilmslow. Packed with iconic Queen hits, it promises to be a high-energy celebration of rock and musical theatre.
More than just a show
Behind every performance is something audiences don’t always see.
Hours of rehearsals. Volunteers working front of house. Costume sourcing, set building, planning — all driven by people who simply love being part of something creative and collaborative.
As one volunteer shares: “I love working front of house and meeting the audience. Hearing their feedback makes me proud of being part of AWMTC.”
And that sense of pride is shared by supporters too: “I support AWMTC as I love the arts and think inclusive community theatre is really important.”
Because local theatre doesn’t just entertain — it connects people. It creates opportunities. It gives people a place to belong.
Keeping local theatre alive
Like many arts organisations, AWMTC is facing rising costs — from venues to production expenses — making it more challenging to keep theatre accessible for the community.
That’s why support matters more than ever.
Whether it’s booking a ticket, signing up for a workshop, sponsoring a programme, or making a donation, every contribution helps keep local theatre alive and thriving.
Because spaces like this — where people can come together, be creative, and feel part of something special — are more important than ever.
Find out more
To book tickets, sign up for the May workshop, or explore ways to support AWMTC, visit awmtc.org.
Whether you’re stepping onto the stage for the first time, supporting from behind the scenes, or simply enjoying the show, there’s a place for you in the AWMTC community.
