THOUSANDS of pounds have been raised for a Blackwood community theatre after an online appeal went viral.

The Blackwood Little Theatre (BLT) is the base for the award-winning theatre group of the same name, and regularly holds shows, from literary adaptations and original works, to popular pantomimes

But the home of the partly grant funded project has fallen into disrepair, forcing the troupe to rally to save the site.

They launched an online video featuring award-winning writer and director Vic Mills, which attracted 36,000 views in 24 hours.

Taking viewers on a tour around the building, Mr Mills said that £16,000 is needed to replace the 70-year-old roof, and if it isn’t raised in five weeks, the “lights will have to go off” as the building will then be unsafe.

This would leave a full programme of work in limbo, including shows for students studying their GCSEs, plays in national competitions, and the theatre’s youth group project.

The video drew the attention of the Manic Street Preachers, who duly donated £1,000.

Mr Mills said: “We’re the most successful theatre company for amateur community theatre in the whole of Wales which is a challenge in itself.”

Actor Michael Sheen also backed the campaign on Twitter.

Lloyds Bank, Braces Bakery, Monmouthshire Building Society and Blackwood’s Asda and Aldi stores have also pledged their support.

In a bid to raise further funds, the group will hold a “Raise the Roof” benefit show including performances by West End star Peter Karrie, along with a potential signing event with Welsh Game of Thrones star Ross O’Hennessey.

Neil Maidman, chairman of BLT, said the group has some funding in place, but needs more to secure its future at the site.

“The support has been superb,” he said.

A £30,000 grant has been promised by the local authority, but the group must first raised the rest of the money in order to access the funding. They must do this within a five-week timeframe they have been told.

With other grant funding slow to materialise, the production project has now turned to the community for help.

Around £3,000 has been raised so far.

The benefit concert will also include performances from former Britain’s Got Talent and X-Factor acts and an auction of Manic Street Preachers memorabilia. 

The fundraising show will take place at the theatre on Friday June 24, with doors opening at 7.30pm. Tickets will be priced at £10.

Tickets are available online at www.blackwoodlt.org.uk

Alternatively, call 01495 366196.

To donate to the theatre, visit https://mydonate.bt.com/charities/blackwoodlittletheatre