Leicester’s Curve theatre is making its streamed production of Sunset Boulevard – at Home available to view online again and all money raised will benefit the Andy Nairn Bursaries in Technical Theatre.
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical was seen by almost 15,000 people in 45 countries. It was the last show Curve’s head of production Andy Nairn worked on before he died on 26 November 2020 aged 34.
Curve, Derby Theatre and Nottingham Playhouse set up the Andy Nairn Bursaries in Technical Theatre in honour of Nairn’s contribution to theatre in the region. The scheme will provide training opportunities for aspiring theatre technicians from challenging socio-economic and diverse backgrounds.
Curve's chief executive Chris Stafford and artistic director Nikolai Foster said, "we were truly blown away by the response to our production of Sunset Boulevard, a testament to the incredible freelance artists, technical teams and musicians who made it all possible.
"Andy wasn't only an exceptionally talented and respected technician and production manager, he was an incredible leader and mentor for those starting out. He was deeply passionate about training the technicians of tomorrow, encouraging people from all backgrounds to embark on a career in theatre.”
His widow Anne commented, "I find it incredibly heart-warming and humbling knowing that Andy's name will live on forever in the world of theatre.
"Anyone who knew Andy knows that as well as an immeasurable love for his family and friends he also loved theatre and was particularly passionate about giving opportunities to young people.
“To know that the three theatres in the East Midlands, where Andy loved working, are coming together to enrich the lives of young people who otherwise might not have had the chance to experience theatre, as Andy did, would make him so proud.”
Sunset Boulevard at Home will be available to view online from Monday 10 until Saturday 15 May. Tickets cost £20 per household.