Since November 2019, public donors and corporate sponsors have raised over £2,500 during Hull Truck Theatre’s festive fundraising appeal. The generous donations received will enable Hull Truck Theatre to continue their community outreach work via the Give the Gift of Theatre scheme. So, thank you to everyone who donated, you have made all this possible.

The scheme focuses on ensuring local communities have equality of opportunity to access theatre, especially those who might face multiple and varied barriers to attending or participating in Hull Truck's work. In particular, it enables young people to enjoy the magic of theatre performance, many for the first time. Other ways in which the funding might be used include:

Delivering half-term workshops for 3-6 year olds in Orchard Park and Thornton Estate.

Live streaming more performances into hospitals and care homes.

Supporting children aged 3-6 from disadvantaged areas of Hull attend Great Adventures in Storyland with their families.

Providing bursaries for young people aged 8–21 to join Hull Truck's youth theatre.

Helping school groups from disadvantaged areas of the region attend Hull Truck's Christmas show.

Funds raised in 2018 enabled over 350 local young people to see Peter Pan and How To Fly Like A Reindeer this Christmas, thanks to Hull Truck's partnership with Hull and East Yorkshire Children’s University.

As well as donations made by the public, this all would not be possible without support from our Spotlight Partners; Alessandro Caruso Architects, Andrew Earles Holidays, Copy Print Scan LTD, DoubleTree by Hilton Forest Pines Spa & Golf Resort, For Entrepreneurs Only, IT@Spectrum, The One Point, Rollits LLP, Sign Services, St Stephen’s Centre, Unite the Union and Williamsons Solicitors.

Ruth Cooke, Director of Communications at Hull Truck Theatre, said: “Thanks to the generosity of our audiences and local businesses, hundreds of young people and residents of disadvantaged communities will be able to enjoy the transformative experience of live theatre. Whether by seeing a production or taking part in drama activities, we know that engagement with the arts has positive benefits for wellbeing and feeling connected with family, friends and society. These donations help to ensure equality of opportunity for our local communities, especially those who might be facing multiple and varied barriers to getting involved.

"Huge thanks also to our partners, Hull and East Yorkshire Children’s University, whose support has meant that hundreds of young people enjoyed a visit to one of our Christmas shows this year.”

Natasha Barley, Director of Hull & East Yorkshire Children’s University, said: “It’s a pleasure to work with Hull Truck Theatre to provide children from disadvantaged communities with the opportunity to attend the theatre. For most of these young people it is their first time going to the theatre and the opportunity can inspire a love of theatre that means that they will be more likely to attend the theatre in later life. It may also inspire them to think about careers in the theatre.

"We are proud to work with in partnership with another charity that is community-minded and that gives back to children that really need their support. The quality of the productions at Hull Truck are of a very high standard and the children love seeing the performance.”

Hull Truck is a Registered Charity (Registered Charity No.269645).