THE standard of amateur theatre is generally very high in Worcester. With some of the companies, it is outstanding. And not just the actors and singers who normally get all the credit - all the aspects of theatre are done very well.

The companies have backstage crews, lighting teams, sound teams, set builders and the like, but they also have business managers, front of house, programme sellers, publicity officers, and for on stage they have directors, choreographers, musicians, and much more. These days, it is a major business venture to get a show on stage.

The term ''amateur'' can mean many things. We say something is ''amateurish'' when it is done badly. It can of course mean that you don't get paid for it, which is certainly the case with the amateur companies at the Swan. But perhaps most importantly, the word amateur comes from the Latin word for ''love''. And that is the real point. People do it for the love of it, and enjoyment and enthusiasm often shines through, adding greatly to the audience's enjoyment of a performance.

When you add the youth factor into the amateur equation, then sometimes that enthusiasm can come across the footlights like a tidal wave. And if you think I'm exaggerating, come and see WODYS Return To The Forbidden Planet next week. I obviously haven't seen the show at the time of writing, but I'm sure you won't be disappointed.

Amateur theatre forms an important part of what the new Swan Theatre is about, serving the community and acting as a ''home'' performance base to as many companies as possible. Long may the high standards continue.