The pandemic has hugely impacted not only our audiences, but also theatre professionals across the UK. With many theatres unable to open since last March and now, with the UK under lockdown restrictions, a large number of theatre workers have been unable to work for long periods of time. Unable to apply for any of the government support schemes due to ineligibility, they are in need of urgent and critical financial support.
The Theatre Artists Fund, created to provide emergency financial support for struggling theatre freelancers is now open for the fourth round of applications until midday on Wednesday 13 January. The fund offers quick, efficient and easy access to individual grants of £1000, so far raising £4.8 million and providing 4,631 grants to theatre practitioners across the UK.
Launched in July, and spearheaded by leading director Sam Mendes, the fund was established by Society of London Theatre (SOLT) and UK Theatre, with a £500,000 donation from Netflix and a subsequent £1 million contribution from the Arts Council. John Gore, Broadway.com and many more have made significant donations to the fund of which we are so thankful for.
We surveyed some of the people who have already received £1000 grants from the Theatre Artists Fund, and 85% of participants said the grant helped them pay their bills, mortgage or rent, with 62% saying it helped them put food on the table.
Round three of the applications received 2358 applications of which 2018 awards were granted.
We urge theatre professionals to check out the Theatre Artists Fund page and if you’re eligible, please do apply before midday on 13 January. And if you have any family or friends who might be interested, please do share. For anyone who would like to donate to the Theatre Artists Fund, please know that any donation big or small is so appreciated and goes directly to helping those in need.