Play to the Crowd – the arts and education charity that runs Theatre Royal Winchester, Hat Fair and Playmakers – has announced that The Brooks Shopping Centre has made a generous donation towards helping local children experience panto.
As part of their pledge to continue to support the charity by renewing their Corporate Membership, the retail and leisure complex has pledged £1000 to pay for tickets for 100 children to see this year’s traditional family pantomime, Puss in Boots.
The tickets will pay for primary-aged children from local schools to enjoy the pantomime that tells the story of Colin, who has no money, no job and no chance of impressing the beautiful princess until his faithful cat, Puss, steps in.
Theatre Royal Winchester’s annual pantomime is packed with original songs, corny jokes, live music and audience participation so perfect for families; while Panto has been described as a brilliant introduction to theatre.
Julian Eardley, Dame Dolly Duster in Puss in Boots, said: “How amazing of The Brooks to donate money to allow schoolchildren to experience our Panto.
“Panto was my first experience of theatre when I was 5 years old and I still remember some of the show and the magical feeling it created in and around me. It ignited my love of live theatre at a very early age. What a brilliant gift to offer to the children of today.
“Hopefully Puss in Boots will inspire a future generation of theatre goers and The Brooks are helping that process along with this wonderful opportunity.”
The Brooks’ donation supports the charity’s Access Fund, which helps local school children visit the theatre when budgets for tickets or transport are out of reach. It ensures money is never the reason a child misses out on a shared cultural experience with their classmates. If you would like to support the Access Fund, please contact the Play to the Crowd Box Office on 01962 840 440 or email info@playtothecrowd.co.uk to make a donation.
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