400 Local School Children delighted with Panto Treat

Pantomime is often a child's first experience of theatre but for many children and their families in Kirklees, a festive trip to the theatre just isn't possible. Lawrence Batley Theatre’s annual Christmas Hero appeal enables those in our community, who need it the most, to experience the absolute joy that pantomime brings as we invite children and their families from across Kirklees to Lawrence Batley Theatre.

For the 9th year, employees from Syngenta Huddersfield have supported the Lawrence Batley Theatre Christmas Heroes appeal by making a generous donation through the 'Syngenta Employees Community Gift', a fund where staff make donations from their salary which is matched by the company. Syngenta invited 400 local children to visit Lawrence Batley Theatre to see a festive pantomime, Beauty & The Beast. Syngenta arranged transport to and from the theatre and treated each child to an ice cream at the interval.

Becky Dash, Chief Executive of Lawrence Batley Theatre said: “Thank you to the incredible Syngenta team for once again supporting our Christmas Heroes appeal. Our mission is to ignite curiosity in young people and help shape the theatre-goers of tomorrow. Live performance builds confidence, strengthens communication skills and offers a powerful sense of belonging as young people experience stories unfolding right in front of them. It encourages empathy, teamwork and the joy of shared discovery. That’s the impact we aim to bring to our community, and with Syngenta’s invaluable support, we’re proud to open these opportunities to even more young people this year.”

Diane Schalge, Treasurer of the Syngenta Employees Community Gift said: "Another absolutely wonderful trip to the Lawrence Batley Theatre for Beauty and the Beast, one of my personal favourites, and wasn’t it just spectacular? Oh yes it was! The Christmas Hero initiative continues to be a highlight of my year, and I’m so proud that Syngenta can play a part in creating these special memories for local children. Seeing the excitement and wonder on the children's faces as they were transported into the enchanting world of the pantomime was truly special. 

I'd like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the organisers who make it possible, the dedicated theatre staff who ensured everything ran smoothly, and the talented performers who brought such energy and joy to the stage. Sign me up for next year immediately!”

To make a donation or for more information about the Christmas Heroes appeal, visit the Lawrence Batley Theatre website https://www.thelbt.org/support-us/christmas-heroes/ or call their Box Office on 01484 430528.