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Chamber and committees

Open Door Drama in Shetland Receives King’s Award for Voluntary Service

  • Submitted by: Beatrice Wishart, Shetland Islands, Scottish Liberal Democrats
  • Date lodged: Thursday, 05 March 2026
  • Motion type: Standard Motion
  • Motion reference: S6M-20995

That the Parliament congratulates Open Door Drama in Shetland on receiving the King’s Award for Voluntary Service; understands that this honour, the highest that can be given to voluntary groups, is the equivalent of an MBE and that Open Door Drama is the first voluntary organisation in Shetland to be recognised with the award; further understands that Open Door Drama has been providing opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to be involved in theatre in Shetland for the past 30 years; notes that Open Door Drama takes part in the annual Shetland County Drama Festival, as well as producing summer shows and pantomimes, with recent productions including a variety concert, the pantomime Babes in the Wood and Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream; further notes that members are encouraged to explore the aspect of theatre that interests them, from performing to working backstage, and that opportunities for children and young people are provided through the junior and youth groups, which also have summer clubs during the school holidays; believes that these opportunities can improve members’ confidence, communication and interpersonal skills, as well as foster a sense of community; considers that the award is a testament to Open Door Drama’s contribution to Shetland’s cultural life and the transformational impact of theatre, and wishes Open Door Drama well in its future theatrical endeavours.


Supported by: Alasdair Allan, Colin Beattie, Miles Briggs, Ariane Burgess, Annabelle Ewing, Dr Sandesh Gulhane, Jamie Halcro Johnston, Bill Kidd, Douglas Ross, Davy Russell, Kevin Stewart, Paul Sweeney, Evelyn Tweed, Brian Whittle