Theatres Trust, the UK's advisory body for theatres, is leading a national initiative to prevent the permanent closure of hundreds of UK theatres. The campaign sees theatres from across the UK joining forces to help #SaveOurTheatres, something that the team at Babbacombe Theatre, in Torquay, is very passionate about.
Babbacombe Theatre, which was named as one of the country's top 100 attractions and won the prestigious TripAdvisor 2020 Traveller's Choice Award, is supporting the campaign by crowdfunding so they can reinvest in their future programming, retain staff and continue to bring excellent theatre to the community.
Prolonged closure and uncertainty have put the country’s theatres in real jeopardy, including Babbacombe Theatre. It, along with thousands of others, are in grave danger of permanent closure due to the ongoing Covid-19 crisis. Any donations received via their crowdfunding campaign will be used to help the theatre survive the crisis and keep local staff employed whilst continuing to provide a platform for local talent to entertain you. Of course, there are other costs involved in opening a venue and ensuring it can be safe for not only the patrons, but for everyone on site, whilst continuing with the usual overheads on a minimal income after NO income for over seven months.
Every day, theatres are facing the tough decision to make staff redundant and to close their doors until next year - this is not an option for Babbacombe Theatre, if they do not re-open for the festive season, then there is a real risk that closure could be permanent.
It would be a real shame for a theatre that is so loved by locals and visitors alike to have to close its doors, so any support that you are able to give would be greatly appreciated. For instance, if everyone who supported the venue with a review donated, then they will undoubtedly be making it possible for the venue to maintain their place in the top 100 attractions, but more importantly, ensure it can continue to provide entertainment for years to come!
Anyone who signs up to support Babbacombe Theatre through the crowdfunder will not only have a chance to donate, but can also pledge for rewards to thank them for their donation. There are some super rewards up for grabs, including photoshoots with the cast of top shows, lapel badges, the chance to attend rehearsals with the director and choreographer, cast photos and tickets for opening night, seeing the three productions hosted throughout the year as many times as you like, with discounts for attending friends and family and unique sponsorship opportunities.
Alan Ayckbourne , playwright, director and Theatre Trust Ambassador said: "Where are we without our theatres? Our lives are greyer and our spirits poorer. May they open their doors soon and let some light back into our lives."
If you can, please support the campaign by using the hashtag #SaveOurTheatres on social media and visit the crowdfunding page here.