The Marlowe Theatre to Take Part in Giving Tuesday

The Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury, is taking part in this year's Giving Tuesday - one of the first major regional venues in the country to do so.

This international fundraising initiative on Tuesday 29 November aims to encourage charitable donations as an antidote to Black Friday. The Marlowe Theatre Development Trust, Marlowe staff and Dick Whittington cast are hoping to raise as much money as possible in a single day to help share the magic of theatre with children from disadvantaged backgrounds and those in care.

Every £1 donated on the day will go towards the charity's Creative Opportunities Fund and matched with a £1 by Arts Council England through its Catalyst: Evolve match-funding initiative.

The Creative Opportunities Fund has been set up to fund projects and activities which can positively change people's lives through engagement and access to theatre.

Helena Barber, The Marlowe's Head of Fundraising Development, said: "Even in today's society, too many of our young people, local schools and community groups miss out on the chance to visit a theatre, see a live performance, participate in a creative project or to express their own creative and performing talents because of financial constraints or personal circumstances beyond their control.

"It is through ongoing donations to the charity, we can help share the magic of theatre with those who would not otherwise have this life-enhancing chance. This fund is set up to ensure The Marlowe Theatre continues to create projects and deliver creative activities that improve lives, encourages aspiration in young people and brings communities together through the power of theatre."

St Gregory's Catholic Primary School in Margate has just started working with The Marlowe and the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) in the Associate Schools Programme. Headteacher Jacqui Wright said many of the children at the school are affected by the lack of opportunity that is prevalent in the area, live in vulnerable circumstances, and have additional needs - emotional, social and educational.

"Our teachers, governing body and parents, however, continue to have high hopes and aspirations for each and every one of our children. Our school works within very challenging circumstances, but being given the time, space, and expertise, and this unique opportunity by The Marlowe and RSC to share in the magic of the theatre, whilst providing real-life opportunities for our 'vulnerable' children to be involved and engaged, is indeed heart-warming for the whole school community," she said.

"We hope that the memories being created for our children when they visit the theatre (some, for the very first time), work alongside professionals and demonstrate their creative side will help each child to fulfil dreams and create further memories that will stay with them for ever."

Another young person who has benefitted from coming to The Marlowe is a 17-year-old child in care who is the recipient of a Marlowe Youth Theatre bursary. He said: "Attending youth theatre has had a dramatic effect on my life. It has boosted my confidence enormously and has given me direction and a sense of purpose. Since joining, I have realised that I would like to pursue a career in theatre. Receiving a bursary allowed me to receive the essential skills and experience I need to do this."

Donations to Giving Tuesday can be made through the Box Office on 01227 787787 or online at marlowetheatre.com/changinglives.

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