Founded in 2004, the 24:7 Theatre Festival became the catalyst of the vibrant theatre-making
scene now flourishing in Manchester.
Reverberating throughout the UK and abroad as far as
Australia and New Zealand, the talent emerging from this vital and unique Festival continues to
have a distinct impact.
At the end of March 2015, though, 24:7 will lose its regular Arts Council funding and the Festival’s
financial future will become uncertain.
The 24:7 Theatre Festival started in 2004 with nothing but goodwill. Its continuing success elicited
the backing of financial and in-kind supporters. However, the increasing need for “match funding”
has prompted them to set up a Crowdfunding campaign to attract some cold hard cash.
Set within
an ever-changing financial climate, 24:7’s “Can-Do” attitude towards theatre production has always
won through and now you have an opportunity to collaborate with them in a direct, practical way.
24:7 alumni past and present have already lent their support to the funder by filming short
sequences.
TV actors such as Joe Sims (Broadchurch), Noreen Kershaw (also a BAFTA-winning
director) and Vicky Binns (formerly of Coronation Street) are behind the project. Incentives include
goody bags, tickets for the Media Launch and Festival shows, meeting patrons and celebrities, and
sponsorship of the individual plays and workshops.
To lessen the financial risk, a Big Festival Weekend will replace their usual week-long event.
A
programme of new plays, monologues, workshops and family friendly pieces will take place from
24 – 26 July at the Martin Harris Centre for Music and Drama at Manchester University.
David Slack, 24:7’s co-founder, says: ”After 10 years of continuing success, it may be hard for
some to appreciate that the future of our Festival is in jeopardy. Successful crowdfunding will show
everyone that the Festival is wanted, needed and should continue.”
24:7’s initial target is an achievable £2,500, which will help greatly with current funding proposals.
And, of course, if they raise more, they can do more!
Annika Edge, 24:7’s General Manager, says: “It’s a new step for us, but an important one. Not only
is there a current trend for funding in this way, it will also show how much support there is for us to
continue. Although it is all dependent on funding at present, preparations for the Big Festival
Weekend are in full swing, and it promises to be an exciting and truly inspiring weekend.”
“24:7 has always been about developing talent,” adds Slack. “This year, more than ever, we want
to show the world what the Manchester theatre-making scene can offer.”
For more information and details of how to pledge money for 24:7 Crowdfunding go to
www.crowdfunder.co.uk/247-big-festival-weekend-2015 now – or, at the latest, by 8 April.
Listings
24:7 Big Festival Weekend
The Martin Harris Centre for Music and Drama
The University of Manchester, Bridgeford Street, Manchester M13 9PLFriday 24 – Sunday 26 July 2015
Full lineup to be announced May 2015
