<p><strong>What's happening?</strong></p> <p>Since the last refurbishment of the Hippodrome stage floor in the early 1980s, more than 650 different productions have been presented here with regular heavy usage of the stage, six days a week, over 50 weeks a year ... and this is now taking its toll. We need to replace our stage towards the end of 2012 as it is showing serious signs of bowing, splitting, unevenness and general wear and tear.</p> <p><strong>When will this all take place?<br></strong></p> <p>We will need to close our doors at the end of August 2012 (after Dirty Dancing) for around 4 weeks for a full stage replacement. We also want to use this closure time to carry out other essential backstage remedial work and improvements, especially with lighting, and give a few areas a lick of paint!</p> <p><strong>How much money is needed?<br></strong></p> <p>The total cost is estimated at &pound;1,137,000 and fundraising is already underway. As an independent, not-for-profit registered charity, without any public subsidy, we need as much help as possible in raising funds for this important appeal</p> <p>Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving &ndash; they&rsquo;ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they&rsquo;ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it&rsquo;s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.</p> <p>So please dig deep and donate now.</p>