Express & Star

Rep and Royal Ballet so thankful for success of fundraising campaign

A fundraising initiative is working to help support cultural institutions during the coronavirus pandemic.

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Birmingham Royal Ballet Director, Carlos Acosta and The REP’s Artistic Director, Sean Foley (Photo by Joe Bailey)

The Save A Seat campaign was set up by Birmingham Repertory Theatre and Birmingham Royal Ballet to cover lost income from seats left empty due to local tier restrictions.

The campaign helped to raise £15,000 from audience donations and match-funding from law firm DLA Piper for the run of the The Nutcracker at the REP at the end of last year.

All proceeds will be split equally between The REP and Birmingham Royal Ballet.

Sean Foley, artistic director at The REP said 2020 had been an unprecedented and difficult year for theatres across the country.

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He said: "However, in these challenging times, we have been overwhelmed by the incredible support of audiences and partners, including the fantastic response from supporters to our Save A Seat campaign and the generous match-funding from DLA Piper LLP.

"We very much look forward to a time in the not-too-distant future when we can welcome all of those who have helped us over the course of the year back to The REP."

Carlos Acosta, director at Birmingham Royal Ballet, said the ballet was grateful for the support of DLA Piper and the support of the Nutcracker.

He said: "2020 was a difficult year for Birmingham Royal Ballet and the arts industry, but the unwavering support from audiences has been a constant source of encouragement for the Company.

"We cannot wait to return to the stage as soon as we can."

The campaign will take place again for a further run of The Nutcracker at the REP, which will feature Birmingham Royal Ballet dancers and is streaming online until February 21.

Tickets cost £10 per household and can be purchased at brb.org.uk