The Everyman Theatre has launched a Sponsor A Seat scheme to help fund the remaining £250,000 needed for its restoration.
Geoffrey Rowe, Chief Executive said: “The Everyman is in a poor way. It is not an exaggeration that without a restoration, the theatre will begin to fail as attendances and income start to decline. Audiences expect higher levels of comfort and the existing seats are extremely uncomfortable and not in keeping with the venue. We hope the public will support us. It’s an opportunity at an affordable level for a lot of people to make a contribution to the refurbishment.”
The Victorian theatre is closing from May to September 2011 to carry out the first proper restoration and refurbishment for over 30 years.
The theatre will refurbish the auditorium and improve front of house areas. New and better seating is a major part of the restoration project and individuals are being given the opportunity to sponsor one of these new seats in the newly refurbished auditorium for £250.
Sponsors will receive a brass plaque on the seat of their choice to mark their donation and a mention in theatre brochures and programmes for the opening season.
Geoffrey added: “The total cost of the restoration project will be £3 million. We have already secured £2,750,000, so we are almost there and every donation can make a real difference. This is a chance for local people to play a part in restoring their theatre and give the town the building for arts and entertainment that it deserves!”
The Everyman recently celebrated a £500,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund which will be added to the £760,000 already raised by the Everyman fundraisers, a £1 million loan from Cheltenham Borough Council and a grant of £250,000. A further £240,000 has come from charitable trusts and donations.
To join and for more information on the scheme, please contact Geoffrey Rowe on 01242 512515.
