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Become a Friend FAQs

What changes have we made to the Friend Scheme?

We have amended the scheme to make it more inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of age/status. It applies to all our three venues, Theatre Royal, Playhouse and Stage Two, to make sure Friends have more engagement with Norwich Theatre than ever before. The new scheme has three levels: Friends, Best Friends & Gold Friends – giving you a greater choice in how you support Norwich Theatre and the benefits that you receive.

 

When does the new scheme start?

The new scheme launches on 1 June 2022.

 

Do I need to do anything?

No, you don’t need to do anything for now. If you are an existing Friend you can still priority book and access your current benefits automatically. You can continue to either book online or with our Box Office.

 

How do I move onto the new scheme?

30 days before your current membership ends, you will be sent a renewal reminder email/letter. When you renew, you will be able to choose from one of the new levels. Once you purchase the new membership, the scheme will start straight away and you can begin to use your new benefits.

 

Do I have to renew my current scheme early?

No, if you are an existing Friend you don’t have to renew early, your current membership will still be valid until its expiry date when you will be renewed onto the new scheme. However, if you would like to renew on to the new scheme early this is possible, but we wouldn’t be able to refund the remaining months left on your current membership.

 

Will I receive a Friends card with my new membership?

Yes, you will receive a new eco-friendly card  when you join or renew your membership into the new scheme. This will be sent to you within two weeks of joining. Until you receive your card, you can use your confirmation/welcome email, which has details such as your Friends level and expiry date.

 

Can I get a replacement membership card if I lose mine?

Yes, you can get a replacement card if you lose your membership card. However, there will be a charge of £2.50 for this service. New cards can be order in person or over the phone on 01603 63 00 00 and will be delivered within 7 – 10 working days. This service cannot be used for Friends membership before 1 Jun 2022.

 

Does the discount include workshops?

No, the discount only covers selected shows, food and drink.

 

Can I use my discount at the Playhouse and Stage Two as well?

Yes, the new scheme covers all three venues, so discounts can now be used at Theatre Royal, Playhouse and Stage Two.

 

Will I still get a discount on Theatre Royal bars and restaurant?

Yes, and you will also now get your 10% discount at the Playhouse Bar.

 

How do I redeem my discounts?

For ticket purchases online please make sure you login into your account via norwichtheatre.org/login/ before making a purchase. Your discount will automatically be added to your shopping cart as you select your tickets. If you don’t login until the end of your journey tickets will not appear to be discounted until after you login and come to make payment.

For ticket purchases in person or over the phone, our Box Office team will ask for your personal details or customer ID if you have it handy. The Box Office member will be able to find your account on our system and ensure your discounts are included while booking.

For the Café Royal, Prelude or Theatre Royal / Playhouse Bars, you will need to show your Friends card, which will include your Friends level and expiry date. If you have renewed or purchased a membership at the beginning of the month you will receive a welcome email with your temporary card details. Please use this email as verification for your friends membership until your new eco card arrives.

 

How do I access the exclusive events/ content?

All exclusive content and invites will be communicated via email. Please ensure your email address is kept up to date in our system to ensure you don’t miss out on any exclusive content.

 

What happens to my old scheme once the new one starts?

The two schemes will run alongside each other for the next year, so you can stay on your current scheme until it expires.

 

Do I have to move onto a specific level with the new scheme?

No, once your current membership ends you can choose which of the three levels you would like to join.

 

How do I pay for the membership?

Card, cash and cheque payments are accepted. Paying by card offers the option of setting your membership to auto-renew each year. All you have to do is store your card details on your theatre account and ensure the auto-renew option remains selected.

 

I had a Direct Debit setup for my last Friend membership, why can’t I continue that on the new Friends Scheme?

From June 2022 we will no longer be accepting Direct Debits for the Friends Scheme. Existing Friends will be contacted once their current membership expires and offered the option of card, cheque, cash or continuous card payments (auto renew).

For existing Friends we suggest you cancel your direct debit by contacting your bank or building society on the phone, via secure online banking, or visit your local branch. Direct Debit payments can be cancelled at any time but a bank will require at least 1 days’ notice before your next payment date.

 

Who can I talk to further about this?

For further information please contact our Box Office team by phone on 01603 630 000 or by email at friends@norwichtheatre.org