A television icon and West End star helped an East Cambridgeshire theatre group to celebrate their achievements.
British dancer and choreographer Wayne Sleep OBE, and London theatre favourite Cassidy Janson, attended Soham-based Viva Arts and Community Group's annual award ceremony.
During the ceremony, which was held at The Old Hall in Stuntney on Sunday July 13, the latter wowed guests with a song from ‘And Juliet’ for which she won an Olivier Award in 2020 for her role as Anne Hathaway.
220 members, trustees, presidents, patrons, civic guests, dignitaries, industry celebrities and supporters gathered at the invitation of Viva founder and chair Daniel Schumann MBE DL.
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Daniel said: “In a world that can often feel divided, youth and community theatre bring us together.
“They teach empathy, ignite joy, and remind us of our shared humanity. Viva is a reminder that art does not belong to the few — it belongs to all of us.”
He added: “Here at Viva, we have created something rare and powerful.
“A space where everyone — no matter their background, age, ability, or experience — is invited to take part, to take pride, and to take centre stage in something meaningful.
“Inclusion isn’t just something we talk about here — it’s something we live. Everyone has a role.
“Everyone has a place. Everyone matters. We believe in potential. And we will never stop asking: who else can we welcome in?”
30 members of Viva, which included performing members and volunteers, were presented awards by other special guests, such as Viva patrons Liza Goddard and Michael Fenton Stevens.
The late Ian Lavender’s widow, Miki Lavender, presented an award on his behalf and Viva were also thrilled to welcome the late Roy Hudd’s widow, Debbie Hudd, to Viva for the first time.
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