Camphill Milton Keynes is beginning a series of planned upgrades to its on-site Chrysalis Theatre – and in the coming days its fundraising will be supported by the Big Give Christmas Challenge match-funding campaign.
The charity provides homes, meaningful work and community life for adults with learning disabilities and autism, and The Chrysalis Theatre - located in the heart of Willen Park - is home to groups including MK Sinfonia, Evolve West Coast Swing Dance, Phoenix Rising.
The space regularly hosts events by Seed Talks, MK Music Academy, MOTUS Dance, and Bradwell Silver Band.
New theatre manager, Chris Bradley-Goodship, who brings more than 25 years of experience in the performing arts, has joined with a commitment to accessibility, inclusion and community engagement.
“It’s been inspiring to see how our hirers use the space and how much it means to our community,” he said, “My long-term vision is to bring more inclusive shows to the theatre—programming that reflects our charity’s values and creates more opportunities for our residents.”
Planned improvements include accessible counter-service areas in the foyer, and on-site digital and video-conferencing technology to enable hybrid performances, training and celebrations.
These enhancements will benefit residents and individuals who access workshops in drama, scriptwriting, music, movement and technical theatre.
Starting today, and for one week only, Big Give will double any donations made to the project via their website:
https://donate.biggive.org/
“Keeping a busy theatre future-ready requires careful planning, particularly around accessibility, and so we are actively fundraising,” said Camphill MK CEO, Tim Davies, “We’re delighted that Big Give has chosen to support us for a second year running.”
