Young carers, looked after children, families reliant on foodbanks, children facing life-changing cancer treatments and older people living in isolation – all can benefit from being able to see shows and events throughout the year. Sometimes it’s just for a day of respite, other times to ignite a lifelong love of the creative arts.
“Last year, thanks to the generous donations made by audiences, this amazing venue was able to give away 2,300 tickets to children and families and other groups who otherwise would not have been able to enjoy the wonders of live theatre,” says CBeebies’ star Chris Jarvis, Lead Patron at Lighthouse, who is now in rehearsals for Dick Whittington, this year’s family pantomime, made at Lighthouse, especially for Poole audiences.
“We can’t wait to meet all the local families who come to see our pantomime, and we love putting on a spectacular show to make them laugh and boo and hiss, but it also reminds us how important it is to ensure no one misses out on the benefits that arts, music and theatre can add to their lives, for education, understanding, entertainment and enjoyment.
“Coming to see live theatre can be transformational so let’s raise enough money to make sure we can give away even more this year!”
From older people and their carers being able to get together, watch a show, and feel less isolated, and families affected by cancer who can share an unforgettable night out together, to local children in care and young carers being able to take a break and simply be children again, the Big Christmas Appeal benefits people from across the community.
This can be a life-changing experience and can only happen with the support of Lighthouse audiences, supporters and donors.
A LAC (Looked After Children) mentor told us what it meant to them: "The children enjoyed the show so much. To see them smiling, laughing and singing along was just magical!
“A lot of students that came had never been to panto, some didn't even know what one was. We have made a massive difference to their life experiences and how they view their childhood."
You can donate online www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/
