Duke of Edinburgh becomes patron of theatre group

A theatre group founder said it was "incredible and extraordinary" to welcome The Duke of Edinburgh as a patron.

Prince Edward pledged to help champion access to cultural activities in his new role at Viva Arts and Community Group in Soham, Cambridgeshire.

The charity runs The Viva Theatre, which was officially opened by the prince in 2023 and operates inside a former biscuit mill.

Founder Dan Schumann said: "It's a wonderful stamp of approval after all of the work."

The announcement was made to mark World Theatre Day on Friday.

Schumann, who established the group in 1997, said he had stayed in touch with Prince Edward since 2023.

The patronage came after Schumann sent the palace a letter offering him the role.

"To get that kind of endorsement for a tiny little charity tucked away in Soham is incredible and extraordinary, and we're so honoured," the founder said.

"It's an endorsement like no other. It's the highest possible endorsement, in my view.

"For Viva, it's terribly exciting to have that high-level association."

As patron, Prince Edward will lend his support to Viva's mission to enrich lives through the arts.

It puts on regular shows with local actors and runs youth classes.

Julie Spence, the Lord Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, said its work was having an "extraordinary impact" on the community.

"The Duke of Edinburgh's patronage is a wonderful recognition of the important work Viva is doing," she said.

"I know it will inspire the organisation to continue growing and reaching even more people in the years ahead."

The royal household was contacted for comment.

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