York Theatre Royal has launched a campaign to raise £500,000 to help pay for its biggest upgrade in 50 years. Today, The Press publishes the latest in an occasional series of columns by writers explaining what the theatre means to them.

YORK Theatre Royal is a unique workplace. Anyone who works within these walls will agree.

I have been spoilt to begin my career in such a vastly creative environment.

I began work at the Theatre Royal in October 2013 when I started a business and administration apprenticeship after I finished my A-Levels, I had already decided against university and wanted to gain hands on experience in an exciting company.

I realised quite quickly there is no such thing as a normal day at the theatre. It’s an organisation that thrives on its creativity and puts that artistic stamp on everything it does.

The theatre prides itself on its part within the community. The work it does mirrors that.

One of my earliest memories of the Theatre Royal is performing in the Studio as a nine-year-old with my primary school class from St George’s. The education department still have a relationship with St George’s and that work continues ten to 15 years later.

When the theatre reopens, I am sure the new surroundings will inspire even more school children to get involved.

In January, when approaching the end of my apprenticeship, I was offered the role of community project co-ordinator for In Fog And Falling Snow, our community production which is part of the theatre’s residency at the National Railway Museum while we are closed for redevelopment.

As project co-ordinator, I co-ordinate the day-to-day running of the project, ensuring all queries from our volunteers are answered swiftly.

I adore my role and enjoy working with the 500-plus volunteers, whether that’s the cast and choir, or the backstage crew, or costume and promotions teams.

You can tell the show means so much to the volunteers, and I feel lucky and proud to be a part of it.

- York Theatre Royal is closed and fundraising for a £4.1 million redevelopment. There is still £105,000 left to raise. Visit www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/donate

Donate to the York Theatre Royal Capital Project now by texting YTRC15 £5 or YTRC15 £10 to 70070.

- Amber Rennison