As this year’s spectacular pantomime, Aladdin, gets into its stride, The Elgiva is proud to announce the two worthy causes that will be at the heart of our 2024 pantomime fundraising efforts: The Little Theatre and Helen & Douglas House. Both causes exemplify the values of community, creativity and care, making them perfect partners for Chesham’s friendly neighbourhood theatre.
Supporting local creativity with The Little Theatre
The Little Theatre, based in the heart of Chesham, has been a cornerstone of local creative expression for over a century. Now part of The Elgiva family, this historic venue champions community-driven arts and theatre education, nurturing talent across generations.
By supporting The Little Theatre, The Elgiva aims to preserve and expand its vibrant programme, ensuring it continues to serve as a hub for creativity and connection. Funds raised during Aladdin will go towards maintaining and enhancing facilities, supporting local productions and providing opportunities for young and aspiring performers.
The Little Theatre is a beloved space, and we are not just preserving its history but investing in the future of the arts in Chesham.
Caring for Families with Helen & Douglas House
The second worthy cause to benefit from this year’s pantomime is Helen & Douglas House, the Mayor of Chesham’s chosen charity for 2024. Chesham’s Mayor, Cllr Francis Holly, first started volunteering at the Helen and Douglas House charity shop over a decade ago; his wife’s first child spent her last days at the Helen House Hospice, and it holds a special place in their hearts.
This exceptional organisation provides hospice care for babies, children and young adults, along with vital support for their families. Based in Oxfordshire but serving families across the region, Helen & Douglas House ensures that every child and family receives compassionate, tailored care when it is needed most.
The funds raised from Aladdin will directly contribute to the hospice’s essential services, from respite care to emotional support.
The charity offers a lifeline for families during the most challenging of times, providing not just medical care, but emotional and practical support.
By supporting this exceptional charity, Aladdin audiences will contribute to the vital services that ensure every child and family receive the care and compassion they deserve.
Join us in making a difference
The magic of Aladdin lies not just in its glittering costumes and unforgettable songs, but in its ability to bring our community together for a greater purpose. Every donation made during the pantomime will have a direct impact on these two incredible causes.
“Pantomime is all about joy, laughter and bringing people together,” said Coral Tarran, Theatre Manager.
“Our audiences have always been so generous – not just with their applause, but with their hearts. This year, we’re thrilled to invite everyone to join the fun, enjoy a spectacular show, and help support incredible local causes. One of our most exciting projects is The Little Theatre, a newly-inherited space we’re transforming into a creative hub for the Chesham community. With your kind donations, we can create the space our town deserves and build on its legacy, ensuring theatre and the arts continue to thrive in our community for generations to come.”
We invite you to join us for Aladdin and help us champion the wonderful work of The Little Theatre and Helen & Douglas House. Together, let’s create a season of laughter, joy and generosity that lights up our community in more ways than one.
Aladdin runs until Sunday 5th January, various times.
