A Family Affair – Wuthering Heights and Community
Over the past 25 years, The Courtyard has developed significantly by expanding its programme, deepening its engagement with audiences, and growing its presence both within the building and across our partner venues. Yet, one thing has remained constant: our unwavering commitment to creating opportunities and nurturing a sense of community.
Most recently, The Courtyard staged its own in-house pro-am production, bringing together youth theatre members, local community participants, and professional actors. These productions were a beautiful testament to the power of collaboration, bridging generations and offering a shared experience of creativity and learning. It was a vivid reminder of how deeply we rely on the volunteers and communities who support us. We are profoundly grateful to those who give their time and energy because they believe in what The Courtyard stands for and love being part of it.
During our production of Wuthering Heights, we were especially moved by the dedication of one family whose contributions exemplify the spirit of The Courtyard. On opening night, David and Lynn Jones were stewarding the performance, while their daughter Laura Gwynne took to the stage as Nelly Dean. At the very same time, Laura’s daughter Charlotte Gwynne was teaching dance in the aptly named Nell Gwynne Studio. Witnessing this multi-generational commitment was deeply inspiring. Their selfless service whether performing, teaching, or welcoming audiences perfectly embodies what it means to have community at our heart.
We felt it was important to celebrate this family and the many others who give so generously to The Courtyard. Through the arts, they help build a culture of kindness, creativity, and connection. Their example reminds us that The Courtyard is more than a venue it’s a family.
Laura has said “Since my daughters were very young, we’ve always visited the Courtyard. Whether it’s to watch a show, participate in one of the many classes offered or just to pop in for a coffee and some cake. The annual pantomime has become a family tradition, and we were exceptionally excited when my youngest daughter Katie was involved in the children’s ensemble.
Both my girls have been Youth Theatre members which then inspired both to carry on in the preforming arts industry. Charlotte is now back from University and is teaching dance and drama for Laura Gale and Katie has just started her first year at Performers College Essex studying Musical Theatre.
It’s lovely for us to be recognised as supporters but I know there are many families just like ours that wouldn’t be without The Courtyard. So, thank you Courtyard. Thank you for providing a much-needed place for people of all ages and for offering us the opportunities to volunteer to help with shows, tread the boards, learn new skills or just sit and chill.”
Our mission is to offer meaningful experiences to everyone who walks through our doors. We hope that each visit inspires people to get involved, just as David, Lyn, Laura, and Charlotte have. Their story is one of giving back, of finding joy in participation, and of helping others do the same. We are incredibly thankful for them and for all who contribute to making The Courtyard a place where community truly thrives.