Dunstable Town Council Celebrates the Success of Calling Dunstable Showcase Event

Calling Dunstable was a 12 month project funded through Dunstable Town Council’s awarded UK Shared Porosity Fund (UKSPF) via Central Bedfordshire Council. The Town Council commissioned Next Generation Youth Theatre (NGYT) and BBB group to deliver the project, aimed at capacity building and supporting performing arts organisations in the local Community Voluntary Sector (CVS).

The project wrapped up with a big FREE community showcase day at the Grove Theatre in Dunstable.

From the moment the doors opened, the venue was full of energy. The pre-bookable workshops, covering a diverse range of activities such as puppetry, singing, street dance, wardrobe and costume, technical skills, and piano, were a huge success— some even sold out within an hour of being released!

In the upper foyer, guests could enjoy a variety of FREE activities from 3 pm to 6 pm, such as art, writing, circus skills, a dress-up and photo area, and creative consultancy. The space also featured live lounge performances from local artists, as well as seller stalls and exhibition stands, all of which remained busy throughout the day.

The finale showcase in the auditorium from 6 pm was a truly impressive display of local talent and artistry. From expert stage management and lighting to incredible choreography, sound, and presenting, every aspect of the show was polished and professional. The performances from The Limestones, Askahay Unnikrishnan, Dance Connexions, After Hours and Stardust Theatre Company, were of an exceptionally high standard. The audience was treated to a special surprise – a performance from a West End star who first began her career at the Grove Theatre. The crowd responded with rapturous applause for every act, making for a truly memorable evening.

Emily, who won the Calling Dunstable co-host social media competition, delivered her first presenting role with confidence and professionalism, and formed a great duo with Darren from BBB Group on stage. Their energy and humour kept the audience entertained throughout.

The event organised by NGYT and BBB Group proved to be a huge hit, drawing enthusiastic audiences and showcasing a remarkable standard of local talent.

Audience members of all ages, from young people to seniors – including one lady in her 80s – commented on how much they enjoyed the event and expressed a strong desire for more events of this calibre in Dunstable.

The night ended on a high note with an after-party featuring fantastic music from DJ Darren Jones of 1981 music, adding the perfect finishing touch to an already wonderful evening.

The event was more successful and better attended than even the organisers expected, highlighting the power of community support, the strength of the performing arts VCS in Dunstable and social media in spreading the word.

Town Mayor Councillor Louise O’Riordan said: “Calling Dunstable has been a fantastic project, bringing together our creative community and giving local talent the platform they deserve. The finale show showcased the incredibly talented in Dunstable and everyone LOVED it! Events like this not only showcase the amazing talent in our town but also help to build confidence and opportunities for our performers. We need to keep inspiring and encouraging our young artists, and I can’t wait for more events like this to continue bringing people together and celebrating Dunstable’s creativity.’’

David Lloyd – Co-Founder of NGYT said: “It was a perfect showcase of Dunstable’s Creative talent and artistic potential. It was such a joy to see people from across diverse communities expressing themselves, sharing their artistry and celebrating cultural connection. We are hugely excited about the future of the Arts locally in the knowledge that we have uncovered skilled creatives with vision, ambition and optimism to ensure the Calling Dunstable legacy.”

Dunstable Town Council would like to express a huge thank you to everyone who helped bring this event to life, including NGYT, BBB Group, and all the performers who made the night so special.