CASH raised by the Friends of the Georgian Theatre Royal in Richmond will go towards bringing some of the biggest names on the theatrical circuit for next year's spring and summer season.

The group works tirelessly to raise money for the venue and latest donation of £7,000 will help secure bookings from companies such as Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and Heritage Opera.

“We are extremely grateful for the fundraising activities of our Friends,” said Malcolm Bryant, chairman of the theatre’s board of directors.

“While the theatre has always punched above its weight in the quality of shows it offers, we can only seat up to 200 people, so even with full capacity audiences it can be difficult to cover the costs associated with the top-rated performers. This generous donation means that we have been able to sign up some excellent productions for our next season.”

One of the season’s highlights is Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, which will appear on stage at the Georgian from July 5 to 8. The Globe has previously included Richmond in its international tours – often as the only venue in the region – and tickets are always in high demand.

Heritage Opera will bring its chamber version of Puccini’s best-loved opera La Bohème on Saturday, May 19, and Vienna Festival Ballet will perform The Sleeping Beauty on May 30 and 31.

The rest of the spring and summer programme – offering contemporary drama, comedy, musical entertainment and children’s shows – will be unveiled early in the new year.

Gerry Broadbent, chairman of the Friends, said: “We are very pleased to support the theatre in all of its activities, whether through promoting its varied performance programmes, boosting its vibrant youth theatre or developing it as a heritage destination.

“The Friends is a very friendly and active group of like-minded people who enjoy all aspects of theatre and we are always pleased to welcome new members,” he added.

The Friends enjoy membership benefits, including priority bookings, ticket discounts on selected shows, seasonal newsletters and invitations to post-show wine receptions and other social events.

For information, contact the theatre on 01748 823710 or email gtrfriends@gmail.com. More details and a Friends’ application form can also be found in the Support Us section on the theatre website, georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk.