Ace Community Theatre raises funds for the Intensive Care Unit at Queen’s Hospital, Burton

Leicestershire-based Ace Community Theatre, a relatively new but passionately community-driven amateur theatre group, has been captivating local audiences with its productions over the past few years.

Alongside entertaining the community, the group also makes it a priority to support charitable causes. In 2024, their fundraising efforts were especially personal, as they worked to raise money for Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity in recognition of the exceptional care, which is by provided by NHS staff at Burton’s Queen’s Hospital.

In March 2024, the group’s director, Scott, experienced some health challenges after being diagnosed with severe pneumonia.  Scott was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at Queen’s Hospital in Burton. During this difficult time, Scott received life-saving care from the hospital’s dedicated team of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare staff. Deeply moved by their compassion and expertise, he was inspired to give back once he was discharged.

Scott decided to leverage the theatre group’s events throughout 2024, to raise money for the charity with all funds going to the ICU fund. Raffles were held at every show, culminating in a special presentation during the group’s annual pantomime Sleeping Beauty in January 2025. The event held even greater significance, as members of healthcare staff who had cared for Scott attended as honoured guests, marking a moving moment of gratitude and connection.

Scott even shared his emotional story in the Sleeping Beauty programme:

Thanks to the support of their audiences, Ace Community Theatre raised £1,000. These funds will go to support patients and staff in ICU at Queen’s Hospital, Burton.

Reflecting on the journey, Scott said:

“Whilst in intensive care, I met so many amazing doctors, nurses and other healthcare staff, that I owe everything to and once discharged, the best I could do is do what I do best and raise some money for the unit.”

In addition to the group’s fundraising initiatives, Scott has also committed to supporting Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity through the weekly lottery, further making an ongoing difference to supporting his local hospitals.

We would like to say a huge thank you to Scott and Ace Community Theatre for this generous donation, ongoing support and for sharing their story.

If this story has inspired you, there are countless ways to make a difference with Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity. Whether it’s through a donation, joining the weekly lottery or exploring the “Get Involved” page for fun and creative ways to contribute, your support truly matters. Every penny raised helps improve care for patients and provides vital support to hardworking staff across its five hospital sites in Derby, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire.