Wolverhampton Grand Theatre is celebrating double success after winning 'Best Use of Social Media' and 'Apprentice of the Year' at the Black Country Chamber Awards.

The ceremony recognises the best in local business and was attended by more than 400 people at Wolverhampton Racecourse.

Creative Learning Assistant Libbie Doyle was named 'Apprentice of the Year' and the 'Best Use of Social Media' was awarded to the Grand for the campaign to promote The Sound of Music, prior to the show playing at the theatre last October. 

The pinnacle of The Sound of Music campaign was a video which saw members of staff appear as nuns and lip-sync to “How do You Solve a Problem Like Maria”, one of the most famous songs from the show. The video reached more than 28,600 individual Facebook users, including shares from cast members. Over 7,400 people viewed the video on Twitter.

Libbie Doyle joined the Grand Theatre as an apprentice in October 2016 and then became a permanent member of staff following her twelve-month apprenticeship. She is focused on the weekly Grand Arena Youth Theatre and the Grand Theatre’s two youth schemes First Call and Sixteen25. Libbie said:

“I’m overjoyed to win! It’s nice to be recognised for my work and I feel lucky to have had the chance to work with an incredible group of mentors. I love working at the Grand Theatre and the diversity of my job, as I get to do something different every day.

“I’m currently working on The Phoenix Project; a collaboration between The Grand, Geese Theatre and The Haven Wolverhampton for women affected by domestic violence. Going forward, I’d like to see it become an established project and see the women find encouragement and confidence through the arts.  I also hope to engage with more young people and bring them into the theatre.”

Adrian Jackson, Chief Executive & Artistic Director of the Grand Theatre, added: “I’m delighted with our success at the Black Country Chamber Awards. This is a fantastic achievement and a reflection of the talent and hard work from the team at the Grand. 

"Well done to everyone for their contribution and dedication to their various roles within this historic Theatre”.

To find out more about the theatre’s Creative Learning department and youth schemes, visit grandtheatre.co.uk/creativelearning.