Actor Suranne Jones to Launch Playwriting Contest to Aid Norfolk Theatre Funding

A prominent UK television actor has expressed her expectation that a talent initiative will generate funds for a community theatre located in Norfolk. Sheringham Little Theatre reported a “black hole” in its financial situation subsequent to last week’s Budget, attributed to modifications in employers’ National Insurance contributions. Suranne Jones, recognized for her roles in BBC dramas such as Dr Foster and Vigil, announced her commitment to support the theatre by inaugurating a playwriting competition aimed at local writers. Revenue will be generated through ticket sales for performances of the victorious submissions, followed by an on-stage critique delivered by the theatre’s president, Jones. “It will combine a search for community talent with being a money-maker,” she stated. Jones, who gained prominence through her work on ITV’s Coronation Street, assumed the role of president for the Little Theatre earlier this year. Debbie Thompson, the theatre director, expressed her appreciation for the assistance, citing a “double-whammy” effect from alterations to employer National Insurance contribution regulations and an increase in the National Minimum Wage. The National Living Wage is scheduled to increase by 6.7%, moving from £11.44 to £12.21 per hour. She indicated that these two measures would incur an extra annual cost of £25,000 for the theatre. “This comes after Covid, then we had the cost of living crisis – which is still going on,” she added. Mrs Thompson confirmed that the playwriting competition is slated for launch next year and extended her gratitude to Jones for her backing. “She’s so hands on because she absolutely sees the value of the community theatre, as that’s how she started,” she commented. “She really has been heaven-sent,” she concluded. For updates on Norfolk news, refer to BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.