Drama group ‘honoured’ to receive King’s voluntary service award
THE OPEN Door Drama group is celebrating after being awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
This is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is said to be the equivalent to an MBE.
Open Door Drama creates theatre with all age groups, from primary age children to senior citizens.
Reflecting the name, the group says its “door is open to all”.
It added that it has worked on many “brilliant” projects over the last 30 years, “and none of them would have been possible without our volunteers and the support of the wider Shetland community”.
The group thanked its “amazing and loyal members, past and present”, who have contributed towards the team achieving the prestigious award.
In recent years Open Door Drama has expanded its activities to include dedicated junior and youth groups.
It is one of 231 local charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups to receive the King’s Award for Voluntary Service honour this year.
The award, created in 2002, aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to support their communities.
Representatives of Open Door Drama will receive the award crystal and certificate from Lindsay Tulloch, Shetland’s lord lieutenant, in the coming months.
In addition, two volunteers from Open Door Drama will attend a Royal Garden Party at Holyrood House in Edinburgh next year, along with other recipients of this year’s award.
Open Door Drama chairperson Izzy Swanson said: “We couldn’t be happier that our group’s work has been recognised, we are particularly proud of our Youth members who give so much of their time to support our Junior Drama Summer School.”
Ann Thomson, secretary and Saltire Award co-ordinator, added: “We are honoured to have been considered for this amazing award and are delighted to accept on behalf of the group
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“In accepting this award we celebrate the input of everyone involved, noting the hours of commitment and dedication that goes into every production.”
Lindsay Tulloch QPM said: “I am delighted that Open Door Drama Group has been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service – the highest award for local voluntary groups in the United Kingdom. This prestigious honour, often described as the MBE for volunteer groups, celebrates their outstanding dedication and recognises the positive impact of the group’s members within our community.
“This award is a testament to the passion, teamwork, and tireless efforts of the group’s volunteers who give their time and talent to enrich cultural life in Shetland. Their work embodies the spirit of community, demonstrating how the arts can inspire and bring people together, through their productions, workshops, and community engagement.
“Open Door Drama has long been a cornerstone of creativity and inclusion across Shetland, providing opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to build confidence, develop skills, and connect through the performing arts. I wish them every success in all their future activities.”
Next up for the group will be performing Twist at the Lerwick Legion later this month.
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