Roger Cunnington was a dedicated and influential figure in the UK’s amateur theatre community, particularly within Birmingham and the surrounding regions, as our Chairman. This being a pivotal role in promoting and organising theatrical events, including our annual One-Act Play Festival.
His leadership helped foster a vibrant local theatre scene, encouraging participation and excellence among amateur groups.
Beyond his contributions to BDTG, Roger served as Treasurer and Administrator of the United Kingdom Community Drama Festivals Federation (UKCDFF) and was Chair of the Central Area of the All England Theatre Festival (AETF).
His commitment to the arts extended to national levels, where he worked tirelessly to support and develop community drama.
In recognition of his significant impact, the AETF established the Legacy Fund in his honour. This fund supports workshops and seminars aimed at grassroots theatre groups, ensuring that Roger’s passion for nurturing talent and fostering community engagement in the arts continues to inspire future generations.
Roger Cunnington’s legacy is marked by his unwavering dedication to amateur theatre, his leadership in various theatrical organisations, and his enduring influence on the cultural fabric of Birmingham and beyond.
To celebrate Roger’s lifelong commitment to nurturing young talent, we have introduced a new annual award dedicated to him. This award recognises outstanding youth theatre productions and the dedicated individuals and groups who help young people thrive on stage. By shining a spotlight on youth-driven creativity and excellence, this award ensures Roger’s spirit continues to guide and inspire the next generation of performers.
2025 - James Berryman performing in "Cinderella".
In December 2024, James Berryman lit up the stage as Buttons in Cinderella, performed by Youth Onstage at Solihull’s Dovehouse Theatre. This playful reimagining of the traditional pantomime took audiences on a fun-filled journey to the magical “Fairytale Academy,” where the story unfolded under the watchful gaze of a fictional school inspection team—the delightfully named National Observers of Dramatic Absurdities.
James brought both heart and humour to the role of Buttons. His animated expressions and natural stage presence made him a favourite with the audience, especially during moments of audience interaction as he bounded up and down the aisles. His comic instincts shone brightest in group numbers like The 12 Days of Christmas, where his timing and chemistry with fellow cast members added flair and laughter to the scene.
James’s performance didn’t go unnoticed. In recognition of his exceptional talent, he was named the first-ever recipient of the Roger Cunnington Award. This new accolade honours the legacy of Roger Cunnington, a beloved figure in amateur theatre, and celebrates outstanding contributions to youth performance. James’s energy, charm, and professionalism on stage made him a perfect choice for this meaningful award.
Youth Onstage continues to be a vibrant and supportive platform for young performers in Birmingham and Solihull. Known for their high-quality, youth-led productions, the company offers young people the chance to grow in confidence, develop stagecraft, and shine under the spotlight. With an experienced creative team and a commitment to nurturing local talent, Youth Onstage remains a key part of the region’s thriving theatre scene.
Looking ahead, Youth Onstage will be back this year with what’s sure to be another must-see show filled with rising stars and spirited storytelling.
