LEP match-funds crowdfunding campaign to support theatre

Fareham-based  Blackbox Theatre has been among the first to receive support from a match-funding initiative launched by Solent LEP. The LEP is allocating £100,000 from its local growth fund for micro and small businesses to Crowdfunder’s 'Pay it Forward' campaign, which helps organisations pre-sell their services to ensure continuous cash flow.

Blackbox Theatre received a match fund pledge of £1,000 from the LEP, helping it beat its £2,000 funding target. The money will enable it to entertain audiences through the lockdown by recording The 39 Steps for radio audiences. Theatre director, Chris Hawley said: "This extra funding allows us to keep going as a company during these tricky times, try out something new, employ some local artists during lockdown and carry on entertaining audiences."