Nottingham-born actress Vicky McClure has lent her support to Nottingham Playhouse’s 50:50 appeal which makes theatre more accessible for local people facing hardship.
McClure has appeared in a range of television programmes including This is England, Broadchurch and Line of Duty. She will make her first stage appearance for 12 years in Stephen Lowe’s Touched at the Playhouse in February 2017. She explained why she was supporting the appeal.
“Ever since I was little, I’ve been visiting Nottingham Playhouse and immersing myself in the stories told on stage. Watching the pantomime was an annual family tradition that we waited the entire year for. It’s a place that’s become a home, so much so that I’m choosing Nottingham Playhouse as the perfect place for me to return to the stage in February.
“But not everyone is able to relish this experience. Many people in our community who face significant struggles will never have the chance to experience this joyful atmosphere. Nottingham Playhouse is working hard to change this through its 50:50 appeal.”
Through the appeal, the Playhouse donates tickets to charities, community groups and schools. Since the scheme began in 2012, more than 4,000 people have been able to experience the delight of theatre, often for the first time.
The Playhouse’s ambition is to raise £30,000 to give 3,750 people the opportunity to experience the joy of theatre. A single donation of £8 funds one ticket and Nottingham Playhouse match-funds the rest.
Donations can be made to the appeal via the Nottingham Playhouse web site.