Royal Shakespeare Company launches £1 million appeal towards transformation of its Stratford home
01 September 2008
On Sunday 31st August, when the RSC threw open its doors for its annual Open Day, RSC Artistic Director Michael Boyd and RSC Executive Director Vikki Heywood launched the Transforming our Theatres Appeal to raise £1 million towards the transformation of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
During the Open Day, attended by 10,000 people, Boyd and Heywood were joined by members of the RSC acting ensemble on the riverside to cheer on the appeal. They also led a public session with the architects and designers of the new theatre, as well as Mace Group, the construction managers, to update people on the progress of the build so far.
Michael Boyd said, "It has long been our aim to bring actors and audiences closer together and this appeal gives everyone a chance to help us achieve that aim. We are transforming the auditorium into a truly exciting performance space and the whole building into a much more open and welcoming place.
We have been fortunate to receive many gifts from our members and supporters already, but with £10 million left to raise we still have some way to go, and every single contribution, no matter how small, takes us closer to our goal. The £1 million we hope to raise through the Transforming our Theatres Appeal is crucial to help us on our way."
There are 7 different ways that people can donate money to the appeal –
- Take Your Seat – Many members and supporters have already chosen to be a part of the new theatre by naming a seat. You can name a seat with a monthly donation of £50 over 24 months or a single contribution of £1,200 or more.
- Sponsor A Brick – a donation of £50 to sponsor a brick will support our Transformation and you will receive a commemorative certificate in appreciation of your gift.
- Top Up Your Tickets – when you buy tickets online or through the RSC Box Office, you can add a donation to your purchase.
- Collection Box – you can drop spare change into a collection box in the foyer of The Courtyard Theatre.
- Donate Online – you can donate on line via www.rsc.org.uk/appeal
- Donate by Post – you can post a cheque.
- Donate via telephone – you can donate over the phone with a debit or credit card.
The RSC is a registered charity, no. 212481, and donations are eligible for Gift Aid.
More information
For more information on the transformation and the Transforming our Theatres Appeal, please go to www.rsc.org.uk/appeal
For a photograph of Michael Boyd, Vikki Heywood and members of the acting company, including Patrick Stewart and David Tennant, please contact Nada Zakula on nada.zakula@rsc.org.uk or 01789 412622.
For press enquiries, please contact:
Philippa Harland, RSC Head of Press on philippa.harland@rsc.org.uk or on 07887 837900 or 020 7845 0512.
