I would like to start this column by saying a huge thank you to our fantastically generous audiences who supported our charitable efforts over the Christmas period.

Whether you donated a present for our gift appeal in aid of Oxford Children’s Hospital, a tin of cat food for Oxford and District Cats Protection or popped your loose change into one of the collection buckets after a performance of Miracle On 34th Street or Cats you helped to raise a smile this festive period.

Thanks to your efforts, we were able to take 10 sacks full of presents to youngsters (as well as donating more than £1,300) and hand over dozens of tins and bags of cat food, in addition to a donation of more than £360.

And our support for charities does not stop there. Last week we hosted OrangAid, an evening of comedy in aid of conservation by the Sumatran Orangutan Society and on March 24 and 25 it is the 10th, and final, Childish Things in aid of Helen and Douglas House.

We are proud to be part of the community and support local charities such as these, but we could not do it without your help, so thank you.

As a theatre, we are dedicated to making your visit a special one and are always keen to hear your feedback.

If you have come to see a show here at the New Theatre you may have received one of our ‘How Was It For You’ surveys via email. This is your chance to share your views with us on everything from the price of ice cream to your thoughts on the production.

We find out some really interesting things. A recent one came from The Legendary Rock Shows tour, which was at the theatre from January 7 – 11.

One lady told us that she had seen Eddie Cochran and Gene Vincent perform together back in her youth, which is why she had bought tickets to the Gene and Eddie show. She said it was a fantastic night and that the actors had captured the singers, and brought back memories from the last concert.

The comments also help us to better understand what audiences thought about their visit and show us what we are doing well and areas that may need our attention.

From the surveys we know that the reason many people come to the theatre is for a special occasion such as a family birthday (more than 25 people celebrated with us during Cats), anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, Mothers Day and many more. Our aim is to give you a red carpet experience and provide a night to remember. If you want to make it a really special visit for your party, we offer the Ambassador Experience.

There are three packages starting at £5, which can enhance your visit and help you treat a special person. In addition you could take advantage of our VIP Lounge which gives you access to a relaxing bar area, welcome drinks and post-show hospitality. Visit the website or ask at the box office for more details and let us spoil you.

For details on the Ambassador Experience, email oxfordgroups@theambassadors.com or call 0844 871 3020.