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Getting more out of volunteering

Most people celebrate their 50th birthday with a relaxing meal out with a few friends but not Carol Fry...

Carol decided to abseil off the roof of our building, raising a whopping £1,069 in the process - our highest fundraiser for the entire event - so we thought we'd find out a bit more about this real-life super woman.

How did you hear about volunteering?

I saw a post on Twitter and I'd also spotted some flyers about volunteering in the foyer. I'd been looking for something to do in my spare time and this looked like a great place to be.

Have you done any volunteering before?

Yes, I volunteer once a month for the National Trust on the Gower, where I get to dig things up!

Why did you decide to volunteer here?

I needed something to get me out of the house. I was a little bit housebound, under pressure and wanted to spend time with adults, as I work all day with small children.

What’s a typical shift like?

My shift starts with a pre-show briefing which are always fun; catching up with friends here and getting ready for the show.

I enjoy meeting different people and helping them whenever I can and you never know who you're going to meet - a friend, a famous celebrity or someone who might just need a hand. Our audience are all lovely.

What shows have you seen in 2019?

Most of them! I think I've been here as a paying customer for pretty much everything.

What’s been a highlight for you?

War Horse, Matilda and Art. I didn't think I'd like Matilda, but I absolutely loved it and ended up volunteering for 17 shifts.

What's surprised you most since you began volunteering?

I had no idea there were so many venues here and the shear range of things happening here on a daily basis.

How has volunteering helped you?

It’s benefited me hugely. I have a great deal of difficulty going into places I don’t know so it's given me a legitimate reason to leave the house. I've had some serious depression issues, and this has really helped; being around nice people from different backgrounds who accept you for who you are.

How will volunteering help you in the future?

It’s already encouraged me to learn more Welsh and I'm taking a year off to learn the language properly. It's also enabled me to see what's involved behind-the-scenes, to get a production going and given me access to people I'd never have expected to meet, from audience members to performers and cast members. I've also made some really good friends here.

What would you say to any young people who are considering, volunteering?

Definitely do it. Listen carefully to the training, be prepared to do the duties and come down. You'll work with a lovely team, experience loads of great shows and have a fantastic time working here.

We’re looking for volunteers from all backgrounds and ages to help out here. Visit our volunteering section to find out how you can be involved.