Fusion
raises the roof for charity
An
alternative Beccles theatre group actively encourages its members to use their
voices to raise money for charity. Fusion Musical Theatre, which was started by
Thomas and Hilary Harrison in June 2009, is now entering its fourth year and is
beginning rehearsals for its 14th production.
“The children’s enthusiasm and energy
on stage is infectious, so audiences love it. We perform to community groups
such as the elderly as well as the general public, which gives the members a
real sense of purpose. But our ability
to raise money for charity has been an unexpected bonus as our policy is that
performances are free to all. The generosity of our audiences has been
outstanding.“
Fusion has raised an incredible £1070 through voluntary
donations at performances of Scrooge last Christmas and Wind in the Willows in
June this year. Their audiences have showed
their appreciation of the group’s professionalism through donations for the
Bulgarian Orphans Fund, a small direct aid charity which gives 100% of its
donations to help orphaned and abandoned disabled children in Bulgaria. Its
founder, writer and broadcast Tony Scotland, who visits the orphanages
personally twice a year to find out they need most, is delighted with the funds
Fusion has raised, but in particular the more personal connection the group
have formed by sharing artwork with the children in one particular orphanage in
Haskovo. He writes “Music and personal
messages are a wonderful way for Fusion to help the children”. Since a love of music runs through the blood
of all Bulgarians, it is fitting that Fusion Musical Theatre are able to harness
the energy of their young performers in this way.
And now BOF looks set to benefit further
from the expansion of Fusion, which is now offering music and drama for adults too.
Hilary Harrison says, “We are different to many other theatre groups in that we
tailor our productions to the people involved, rather than the other way
round. Our musicals are written or adapted
for Fusion members, so audiences never quite know what to expect! We do not
hold auditions, we do not expect members to read music or have any prior
experience. We don’t believe in putting pressure on members to perform in areas
that they don’t enjoy – it’s more an exploration of music and drama in an
encouraging and affirming environment. The children obviously love it as most
have stayed with us since the first production 3 years ago. I believe that now
we are opening our doors to adults that Fusion will offer an uplifting and
enjoyable form of escapism for parents and grandparents too.”