How long have you been volunteering at Wales Millennium Centre? 

Three years.

Why did you decide to become a volunteer? 

I grew up in London, where my father was a musician with the Sadlers Wells Opera and Ballet Company (now the English National Opera). I went to see my first opera when I was three and going to the theatre for all types of performances has been a major part of my life ever since - a pleasure I have been delighted to share with all of my children. Even when finances were stretched I prioritised visits to the theatre for the family whenever I could, as my parents had done for me. When I first came to Cardiff I had to travel to Bristol for many productions and I was truly delighted when the Wales Millennium Centre opened and even more so when I went to my first performance in such a beautiful theatre. When I retired I wanted find a voluntary role which allowed me to give something back to the arts and in particular to the theatre, which has given so much to me. I applied to become a volunteer and I have never regretted that decision, particularly when I learned about the extensive work undertaken to encourage and develop the talent of young people from all walks of life.

Tell us about a memorable volunteer moment?

I will never forget the first time I worked as an usher after the initial pandemic closure. It was an outdoor production of Alice in Wonderland attended by people of all ages. It was the first time I had heard live music for a very long time and the emotional response and joy I felt was clear to see on the faces of all there. It was a real privilege to be part of a team making that happen.

What is the best thing about volunteering at Wales Millennium Centre? 

It's difficult to single out one thing. Amongst the things I love about being a volunteer here are the little things I can do to enhance the experience of someone attending the Wales Millennium Centre, whether it’s helping them find their way around, talking to someone who clearly has an interest in the building about the design or resolving any issues they may be experiencing. Seeing the joy on the faces of those who have just had a really wonderful experience and, of course, having the opportunity to experience such a wonderful variety of performances myself.

What have you learnt since becoming a volunteer? 

I’ve learned a lot about how much work and how many people it takes to put on a performance or an event in the Wales Millennium Centre and also that everyone has different expectations and needs when they walk through the doors and they are all valid.

What piece of advice would you offer to somebody who is interested in becoming a volunteer?

If you enjoy contributing to the joy of others and are ready for some challenges then do it!

It was May 2017 when I saw the advert on social media for volunteering at Wales Millennium Centre.  Having lost my partner of 31 years and having moved back to the UK after 31 years, I needed a new start.

I applied not knowing or expecting anything but hoping I would have a chance. On the allocated day and time, I travelled to Cardiff and went to the Old Library to meet the team.    

I met with David and Serena, and we had a friendly chat, where I was told I had made it on to the scheme. 

I cannot explain what it meant to me, having lost all my confidence it made me feel I had achieved something, Yes!

I then started not long after, in June, and met Laura (the Volunteer Coordinator) and we seemed to help each other along the way.   As time went on, I made friends and grew in confidence again.  I was proud to represent the Centre and be part of the team.

I was proud then and still am to be part of the Wales Millennium Centre story.  As time passed, I was lucky enough to be accepted for a paid role as a Customer Assistant, working on programme and merchandise sales, these were all new challenges.   

I have made lovely friends in the time that I have been here, and all of them that I never would have met if I hadn't made the first step to become a volunteer.

I love it here and am thankful for the experience gained, opportunities to try new things, and pleasure I have and continue to have as part of Centre family.