RAISING $9000 in a week may seem an impossible task but then, HotHouse Theatre is known to push the limits.
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The theatre’s Studio Ensemble, made up of young actors learning their craft, is aiming to raise $20,000 by the end of the week — and if they do, that figure will turn into $40,000 thanks to Creative Partnerships Australia.
The arts organisation’s Plus 1 funding program will match all donations received dollar for dollar until this Friday, May 29, literally doubling the impact of every donation.
The ensemble has already raised $11,000 and all funds will be used to take the group of up-and-comers to Sydney where they will perform their end-of-year show Between The Clouds at the Australian Theatre for Young People — the exact stage where actors like Rose Byrne, Nicole Kidman and Rebel Wilson honed their skills.
Studio Ensemble members Paddy Brown and Christine Miles said planning fundraising activities has taught the group a new side of the theatre world.
“Often people don’t realise how much goes on behind the scenes to put on a production,” said Miss Miles.
“It’s looking at theatre production from a different angle,” added Mr Brown.
“They’re important skills because down the track, if I want to put on my own shows for example, you have to look after everything to do with the production, not just the show itself.”
HotHouse general manager Tahni Froudist said the ensemble were organising a variety of events to help get them to Sydney, where they’d also take part in masterclasses with professionals in the field.
“We get some government funding but to create a show costs over $100,000,” Ms Froudist explained.
“Donations are what help us keep the doors open and run groups like the Studio Ensemble or (indigenous theatre group) Black Border.
“People have been really supportive — a lot of people who already donated earlier this year have donated again just to see that funding doubled.”
To donate visit givenow.com.au/hothouse, phone (02) 6021 7433, or post a cheque to HotHouse Theatre, PO Box 479, Wodonga, Victoria, 3689.
As a registered charity, donations to HotHouse over $2 are tax deductible.