A Trowbridge performance group in the brink of closure has been saved after a successful town stall.
Starry Eyes Performance Foundation was set up in Trowbridge by co-founders Sally and Val in 2000 and offers performance and music opportunities for all ages and abilities free of charge.
The group has been credited with helping children turn their lives around, and offers a free alternative to professional drama groups and singing lessons that many families can't afford.
However in 2024, the group found itself on the brink of closure after an AGM revealed that money was running out.
"We're all volunteers and we don't charge anything, but we do have expenses with storing our equipment, hiring locations for shows, and things like licensing fees," explained chairperson Alison Urch.
"When we got to our AGM last July, we were very concerned that money was running out. Since Covid, getting grants has become increasingly difficult.
"We were looking at the forecast and realised we didn't have enough money to last the year.
"That was when someone suggested having a stall down at the market to try and raise some money."
The charity shop stall at Castle Place in Trowbridge, which has been running for the last seven months, has now proved such a success it has saved the group from closure.
"We've had so many generous donations which have kept us afloat," added Allison.
"We didn't have a specific amount in mind but it was just about having that income to keep us going.
"We now not only have enough money to keep going, but also to hold a 25th anniversary show."
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Starry Eyes last put on an anniversary show in July 2019, following the death of co-founder Val. The show had a huge reaction, and saw ex-members who had grown from children to adults come out to pay their tributes to Val and the group.
Plans are now underway for the 25th anniversary show, and Starry Eyes is not only continuing to run its Castle Place stall, but has also been given a spot at the Wednesday Trowbridge town market.
"It's all about being positive and working with what we have at the moment," said Allison.
"We champion all talent, everybody, any age. Our oldest member was in her 90s still singing on stage before she passed and we welcome people with special needs.
"We just want children and adults to have the same opportunities as everyone else."
Starry Eyes Performance Foundation's 25th anniversary show is still in the early stages of planning, but more details will be announced in due course.
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