Derby Hippodrome Crowdfunding Campaign
With a business plan finalised which outlines the two-phase development of the Hippodrome, Derby’s oldest theatre, and the current situation of the city losing two major performance spaces, 2019 is a big year for the Derby Hippodrome Restoration Trust, as it announces its Crowdfunding campaign.
The Trust’s aim is to raise a minimum of £22,500 via Crowdfunding which is needed to begin the first stage of restoration for the building, which has been derelict since 2008.
Chair Joan Travis said: “It’s the moment for a big push for the Hippodrome. There are currently no viable large performance spaces in Derby. A renovated theatre in a derelict area of the city will be answering the Government’s drive to attract people in to our city centres, breathing life back in to them and encouraging spend.”
The Trust is making applications to national funding agencies for the restoration of the Hippodrome in two phases to deliver a workable future for this hidden jewel in Derby City Centre and provide the City with the cultural venue it is currently missing.
The goal is to have the first phase of restoration underway by 2020. This will involve clearing and stabilising the building, rebuilding the external walls and front of house and replacing the roof. The result will be a functional space which can be used by amateur local theatre companies, schools, community groups and touring companies.
DHRT Trustee Peter Steer said: “Walking into this building in 2020 you would see a restored front of house section with a booking office and customer facilities, the auditorium would be a large, multi-use space with flexible seating, good lighting and a temporary stage. The operator of this venue will have an opportunity to grow the business so the profits can be combined with other funding sources once the fabric of the building is secure.”
The DHRT must raise funds to make these plans a reality which it is doing via a new Crowdfunding campaign to match fund resources from its grant applications. The Trust is appealing for help from anyone who has an interest in promoting live theatre performances across the country and / or who are interested in regeneration projects of this kind to invest in the project.
DHRT Board member Digby Bown said: “By donating you will be helping to change people’s lives, career prospects and livelihoods as well as contributing to something really exciting. We know the people of Derby can be very generous and even a small donation means that they can play a part in rejuvenating this part of the city.”
DHRT needs to raise £22,500 to get the show on the road!
THE CROWDFUNDING CAMPAIGN GOES LIVE 20th February 12pm - www.crowdfunder.co.uk/derbyhippodromerestoration
