Worcester Operatic & Dramatic Youth Section (Wodys) is proud to announce a £1,000 donation to Malvern Special Families, raised following the youth group’s vibrant and well-received summer production of Footloose.

Malvern Special Families provide practical, enjoyable and inclusive support for children aged 5-17 with learning difficulties and complex needs. Their activities include cooking lessons, swimming, theatre trips and a range of engaging sessions that give children access to safe and fun social opportunities.

On Saturday morning, Wodys welcomed Gareth Jones, CEO of Malvern Special Families, to one of their theatrical workshops, where he was presented with a cheque for £1,000. 

Speaking to the children he said,  “This money will help so many local families across Worcestershire. Support from the community and groups like Wodys is essential to help keep our doors open. All that toe tapping you did in Footloose really will make a huge difference, myself and my family came to see you in the show this summer and we were blown away by your talent. We're really excited to take a trip to Oz next summer. Thank you again to all of you”

Donations like Wodys’ make an immediate and tangible difference to the support Malvern Special Families can provide. For example:

• £15 can help fund outdoor learning trips such as visits to farm parks.

• £50 can contribute to vital staff training, including how to respond to medical emergencies.

• £100 can help fund a 1:1 key worker, ensuring that individual children with complex needs receive personalised, specialised care.

Malvern Special Families aim to create an environment where children with disabilities can be themselves whilst they learn, play and develop skills, making the support of local groups like WODYs invaluable in helping the charity continue its mission.

Adding to their community involvement, the creative talents at Wodys will also feature in this year’s Worcester Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival, where they will be recreating the magical Emerald City for their tree display when the exhibition opens in December.

Tickets for The Wizard of Oz, which will run from Tuesday 4 - Saturday 8 August at The Swan Theatre, Worcester, are on sale now and, with the festive season around the corner, would make a fantastic Christmas gift for families and theatre lovers alike.

Secure your seats by visiting the booking office at Huntingdon Hall in Worcester City Centre, calling 01905 611427, or online at worcestertheatres.co.uk Remember, there’s no place like the theatre, so come along and support the next generation of musical theatre stars.