The BIG Thank You 2025

Celebrating Our Amazing Volunteers

At ARTS, we believe in more than just performances – we believe in people. This year has already been an incredible journey, from the Lord Mayor’s Procession through Norwich city centre to our spectacular annual show Ikigai at the Theatre Royal Norwich. Both of these unforgettable events simply wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and support of our incredible volunteers, chaperones, and staff.

With nearly 100 volunteers giving their time, energy, and heart to help our young performers shine, we knew we had to do something special to show our appreciation. And so, the idea of The Big Thank You was born.

A Day of Fun, Food and Friendship

On Sunday 31st August 2025, we gathered together to celebrate everyone who has supported us this year. The event was designed as a chance to relax, unwind, and enjoy each other’s company away from the stage lights.

There was:🎶 music to set the atmosphere🍔 Free food and a bar to keep everyone happy🎪 Wonky Donkey Games, who brought their amazing and colourful carnival games that had both children and adults enjoying the afternoon to the full.

The photos tell the story better than words – families and friends playing side by side, laughter echoing across the field, and smiles that never seemed to fade. Children went head-to-head with grandparents, boyfriends challenged girlfriends, and husbands battled wives in friendly competitions.

One of the highlights? Watching the joy on a young girl’s face as she won the biggest raffle prize donkey you’ve ever seen!

Why It Mattered

The Big Thank You wasn’t just about fun and games – it was about showing every parent, supporter, and volunteer just how much we value them. Without their commitment, care, and willingness to go the extra mile, the Lord Mayor’s Procession and our annual show “Ikigai” could never have reached the standard and success they did.

This was our chance to pause, reflect, and say:💖 We couldn’t have done it without you.

Special Mention to Cameron and Harrison for the brilliant BBQ - DELICIOUS!!!!!

Looking Ahead

The ARTS family grows stronger every year, and events like this remind us that what we do is so much more than the performing arts – it’s community.

To every volunteer, parent, supporter, and friend: thank you for standing beside us, for cheering on our students, and for helping us create magical experiences that our children will treasure forever.

Here’s to you, our ARTS stars, and to many more celebrations together in the future.