A total of 170 families had the chance to experience Cinderella at Coventry’s Belgrade Theatre through its Making Memories fundraising campaign which raised £10,822.
The scheme, which is in its sixth year, smashed previous records and surpassed the target of just over £7,000. It was set up to provide panto experiences for those facing difficult circumstances. Audiences and staff donated to the fund.
Working with Coventry Foodbank and its various referral agencies, the theatre was able to ensure that 761 individual tickets were provided for those most in need across the city. Some of the money will help families to attend another production later in 2018.
Helen Hotchkiss, the Belgrade’s head of development, said, “for many families facing significantly challenging situations, such as financial hardship, illness or isolation, a trip to the theatre is a luxury they simply can’t afford. Making Memories provides them with a brief escape from the challenges of day-to-day life and the opportunity to spend quality time together as a family.”
Over the past six years, Making Memories has raised £33,063, helping 2,228 people to enjoy a day out.
Panto dame, writer and director Iain Lauchlan said, “we’d like to thank you from all of the people you’ve supported, from all the staff at the Belgrade and from everyone in Cinderella.”