Cast scoops double win at the Northern Enterprise Awards 2026
Doncaster’s Cast theatre has picked up two awards at the SME Northern Enterprise Awards 2026 for its community work and its mission to make theatre accessible to everyone.
Big news for one of Doncaster’s favourite venues. Cast has picked up not one but two awards at the SME Northern Enterprise Awards 2026.
- Best Community-Focused Cultural Organisation 2026 – South Yorkshire
- Inclusive Theatre & Cultural Engagement Excellence Award 2026 – South Yorkshire
The awards recognise what Cast does so well: brilliant shows on stage, and a huge amount of community work going on behind the scenes.
More than a theatre
Since opening in 2013, Cast has become a proper part of city life. It welcomes more than 120,000 visitors every year and has engaged almost 14,000 people through more than 700 creative sessions.
Its community programmes are where the magic really happens:
- Doncaster People’s Theatre brings together participants aged seven to 87.
- Citizens of the World is a free weekly music programme for refugees and people seeking asylum.
- Cast Youth Theatre and its Theatre of Sanctuary work give people the chance to build confidence and make lasting connections.
- SEND Work Experience helps young people with special educational needs and disabilities explore their interests in a supportive setting.
“A tribute to the people of Doncaster”
James Blakey, Director at Cast, said: “We’re delighted to receive these awards because they recognise so much of the work that happens beyond the performances on our stages.”
“We are proud to provide a place where people can belong, connect with others and find new and creative ways to share something about their experience of the world.”
“These awards are a lovely recognition of what we can achieve together, and a tribute to the people of Doncaster, our artists, staff, community partners and everyone who helps make this work possible.”
The win is shared with Cast’s participants, artists, staff, volunteers and partners, who all help make the theatre a welcoming place for people from right across Doncaster.
Fancy getting involved or catching a show? Find out more at castindoncaster.com.
Congratulations, Cast. Donny’s proud of you.
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