MEMBERS of The Women's Theatre Workshop in Lancaster are celebrating today after receiving a grant of £4750 from the National Lottery's Awards for All programme. The grant will allow the group to embark on an exciting new project.

The group will work together with theatre practitioner Di Cuming to produce a new piece which will be publicly performed by the women. The show will deal with issues relevant to the group and will be written and devised by the women themselves.

Chairperson Gisela Renolds said: "We are delighted to get this award, especially as this is the first time the group has managed to attract lottery money. It will enable us to re-establish this unique community group helping us make a much needed contribution to participatory arts in the Lancaster district." Workshops and training in three specialist areas such as lighting, set design, puppetry and mask making, will be provided by additional specialist theatre practitioners and artists. Participants will learn devising techniques, performance skills and writing for theatres.

The project begins on Wednesday 26th September, 8pm at the Gregson Centre, 33 Moorgate, Lancaster. The group will then meet weekly for two hour practical workshops and welcomes new members. For more details contact Di Cuming on 07946 805372.