In a race against the clock, HotHouse Theatre is issuing a final, urgent appeal to the Albury-Wodonga community, asking for their support in achieving a critical fundraising target of $18,000 by 31 May 2024.
This fundraiser stands as a significant milestone in securing the ongoing success of the theatre and sustaining its important contributions to the arts community.
The company’s fundraising campaign, “Stage Your Support – Your Donation Doubled” is in full swing and aims to support the development of the next great regional story. Through the Plus1 program, Creative Australia is matching every dollar raised, effectively doubling the impact of each donation.
“With the deadline fast approaching, we are asking our community to rally behind us, ensuring the continuity of outstanding local productions like our recent smash hit, The Plan (and Other Plans) by Grace Rouvray and Bridie Connell,” says HotHouse’s new CEO, Terese Casu.
From award-winning hits like All the Shining Lights to original premieres like The Plan (and Other Plans), HotHouse has continually showcased the region’s creative skill on a national stage.
The captivating 2023 play penned by acclaimed playwright Campion Decent, Unprecedented, has been shortlisted as a finalist in the NSW Premier’s Literary Prize, amidst a remarkable array of contenders.
However, producing original works comes with substantial costs, highlighting the importance of community contributions in sustaining the vibrant local arts scene.
Behind the scenes, The Plan (and Other Plans) serves as a testament to the significant time and money it takes to develop a production of this quality. The development of the play began in 2021 through HotHouse Theatre’s CELSIUS program, supporting local independent artists to develop new works, and it took almost four years from inception to production.
HotHouse Theatre is seeking approximately 200 smaller donations, around $50 each, and 30 larger donations, approximately $250 each. Contributions will not only help create new theatre experiences but also allow supporters to actively participate in maintaining the vibrancy of the local creative community.
Supporters can choose from various donation tiers, enabling them to tailor their impact on the Albury-Wodonga community and the arts. “A donation of $1000 supports creative development programs for local artists, ensuring the continued growth of our cultural scene,” says Terese. “Even a gift of $50 helps keep ticket prices accessible for our community, ensuring everyone can enjoy the arts.”
Those donating $1,000 or more will have the chance to join HotHouse’s Future Foundation. Foundation members will receive exclusive access to behind-the-scenes events at HotHouse and special VIP invitations to select performances and social events throughout the year.
Karla Conway, Artistic Director at HotHouse, emphasises the impact of donations, big or small, in shaping the cultural landscape of Albury-Wodonga. “Even with the financial challenges of creating original works, HotHouse Theatre stays true to its mission: supporting local talent and making captivating Australian stories a reality,” said Karla.
Join HotHouse Theatre in counting down to success – your contribution will make a difference!
To assist HotHouse Theatre and to be part of this vital journey and double your impact, visit: www.hothousetheatre.com.au for details.
Image: courtesy of HotHouse Theatre