Volunteers' Viewpoint

Daniel Head is 17. He became an Arts Centre volunteer in 2008 and says:

"Since I was young I have always been interested in arts and culture. I would always go to the Arts Centre to watch shows and I felt when I could I should give something back to the place where I spent so many nights watching shows. As I'm a student I still have plenty of time to go out with friends on Friday and Saturday nights and the Arts Centre easily fits around my schedule."

What are the benefits to volunteering at the Arts Centre?

"I enjoy getting to watch shows and acts I've always heard about, but never really had the chance to see, such as comedians Stephen Merchant and Jason Manford. I also enjoy seeing acts that I would normally get to see, such as musicians and amateur dramatic groups.

"One of my highlights was finding out that Stephen Merchant, who co write The Office and Extras with Ricky Gervais, was coming to the Arts Centre. I have watched and admired his work since The Office started on BBC and since then have always wanted to see him do live stand up. I also enjoyed Mark Watson, the comedian, who has recently been on television programmes, such as Mock the Week and 8 out of 10 Cats.

"I enjoy my time at the Arts Centre and would recommend that anybody who enjoys any type of arts and culture to come and watch a show – or even volunteer!"

Michael Morse volunteers at the Arts Centre, along with his wife and son, making it a real family affair.

Michael and his wife began volunteering in September 2006, after a period of reflection following their children growing up. Michael said, “My son joined after Christmas when he saw us having so much fun!

“My role is mainly stewarding and the fire marshal. Sometimes I’m the usherette for people who arrive late.

“I get to meet the acts. It more involved than just being in the audience. I’m getting to see what we want to see – we saw Lenny Henry. And I get a £2 voucher towards another show. I have seen some very, very good shows.

"If you like theatre and want to expand your enjoyment then do this. We're seeing things we wouldn’t necessarily pay to see but we’re thoroughly enjoying ourselves. We saw Animal Farm and it was utterly fantastic.

“It’s an honour to be here. We are getting so much out of it.”

Become a Volunteer

The Arts Centre relies heaviliy on its team of front-of-house volunteers to enable the theatre to function during performances.

Our volunteers take tickets, guide members of the audience to their seats and act as stewards. It's a great way to meet new friends, get involved with the Arts Centre and see most of the shows for free!

If you're interested in becoming a volunteer or would like to find out more please email jgoodall@swindon.gov.uk or call 01793 466565.