Shanklin’s Apollo Theatre Players have marked a landmark moment in their 53-year history after receiving the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
The honour, regarded as the highest recognition for volunteer groups in the UK, was presented to the Apollo Theatre Players for their work in preserving and running the amateur theatre for the benefit of the wider community.
The award recognises the dedication of the group’s volunteers, who not only stage productions but also maintain and preserve the theatre’s Grade II-listed building entirely through voluntary effort.
The citation highlighted the Players’ membership numbers, their inclusive approach and the important cultural contribution they make to life on the Isle of Wight.
As part of the celebrations, 2 members of the society were invited to Buckingham Palace to attend one of the King’s Garden Parties.
The formal presentation took place on 4th June when the Isle of Wight’s Vice Lord Lieutenant – who is also a member of the Apollo Theatre Players – presented the award in person at the theatre.
The Apollo Theatre Players were 1 of just 3 Isle of Wight organisations to receive the accolade this year and were the only member of the Little Theatre Guild nationwide to be honoured.
A crystal award bearing the King’s Award for Voluntary Service emblem will soon go on display in the theatre foyer.
