Cash-strapped drama club in Bognor may be forced to close down

The lack of publicity for Bognor Regis Drama Club's shows meant poor attendances which has not generated enough money to secure the club's long-term future.

Barbara Hendrick, who has been a member of the club since the 1970s, has appointed herself fundraising secretary to try to raise some cash so the shows can go on.

"It is devastating," said the 68-year-old. "We have been holding on by our fingertips as it were.

"The club means everything to me.

"I lost my husband a little while back and people at the club have been my rock.

"All I have left now is my 93-year-old mother and the club."

Posters and banners went up and were taken down in June, July and just last week ahead of the club's shows of Arsenic and Old Lace, Take 3 and Stepping Out.

Mrs Hendrick has played every role at the 70-year-old club and has been chairman three times over, but her new role has a more important meaning of keeping the club afloat.

She said it cost more than 2,000 to put on a production. This covers the hiring of the stage, script fees, costumes and much more.

Even with a well- publicised show they were just short of breaking even, but this summer shows were half empty on occasion.

In contrast, the last time they put on a production of Stepping Out 13 years ago it was sold out every night.

The club has stopped holding its monthly social meetings to save money and is now focusing on ways to raise cash.

Mrs Hendrick said: "We have managed to survive all these years, but we really now have our backs against the wall.

"If we cannot afford to put on a production, we are going to lose the enthusiasm."

The club holds its performances at the Alexandra Theatre in Bognor and the newly-refurbished Studio Theatre.

To help with fundraising, contact Barbara Hendrick on 01243 862700.