A youth theatre company from Dorchester is fundraising for a "once in a lifetime" opportunity to make its debut appearance at a popular theatre festival.
The Dorchester Youth Theatre Performance Company (DYTPC), part of Dorchester Arts’ youth theatre, plans to take its production of triggerfish on a week run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
The play is based on the true story of The Royal Adelaide - sailing ship which was wrecked on Chesil Beach in November 1872 while on a journey from London to Australia.
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It has been written by professional writer and director Ed Viney, drawing inspiration from ideas explored by members of the company.
The DYT Performance Company is made up of thirteen young adults aged between 17 and 21 years old and has been working to raise £20,000 to cover accommodation, travel and venue costs.
Jo Simons, artistic director of the company, has praised the "committed and driven" attitude of company members who have raised money through movie nights, quiz nights and online clothes sales.
She said: "It’s quite phenomenal the way they have applied themselves, they are so driven and committed and excited. It’s lovely as it gives them a sense of ownership of the whole project.
"Everyone is so talented and generous with their time and we knew this is the right time to take this show to one of the biggest celebrations of performing arts in the world. They’ll absolutely nail it."
Jo adds how the company has been inundated with support from the local community as members of the public have donated to the company's online fundraiser page.
She said: "It’s wonderful to see people supporting us. I think it’s going to enrich their experience and enable young people to fully experience the fringe.
"It’s not just about doing the fringe, it’s about seeing all the other shows and supporting them to have this once in a lifetime opportunity. It will enable them to experience something they’d never be able to experience again.
“By contributing to our fundraising efforts, you'll not only help us cover essential expenses but also ensure that triggerfish reaches its full potential and leaves a lasting impact on audiences at the Edinburgh Fringe."
The show will make its initial premiere at Dorchester Corn Exchange on Thursday, June 27 and Friday June 28 before its performance at the TheSpace theatre in Edinburgh from Monday August 5 to Friday, August 9.
The project has also been supported by Dorset Council, Dorchester Round Table, Abbas Ecology, Fourniers Ltd, The Big Escape- Escape Rooms Brewery Square and Vivo Lounge.
Jo added: “The support from the Dorchester community has been absolutely brilliant, it’s why we’re performing in Dorchester to say thank you to the community for supporting and believing in us.
“It’s absolutely incredible it’s the biggest project Dorchester Youth Theatre has ever done. It will be really cool to take a show and perform in a professional theatre."
You can donate to the fundraiser by going to the DYT in Edinburgh web page on https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk
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