Curve is a registered charity (charity number 230708), and we rely on the generosity of our audiences and supporters to enable us to be a theatre that is inclusive of all and accessible to everyone who lives, learns and works in Leicester, Leicestershire and beyond. Each November, we turn our fundraising efforts towards The Andy Nairn Bursaries in Technical Theatre.

Please see below for information about the scheme, why we need your support, and how you can donate.

The Andy Nairn Bursaries in Technical Theatre

The Andy Nairn Bursaries in Technical Theatre aims to open doors for young people who are passionate about pursuing a career in the technical theatre industry.

Andy Nairn, Curve's Head of Production sadly passed away in November 2020. Andy was a much-loved production manager and technician who worked at many theatres across the Midlands. He was passionate about mentoring and nurturing the next generation of technicians and believed every young person should have access to the best training opportunities. This annual fundraising appeal was set up by Curve in November 2021 to celebrate Andy's life and commitment to this cause.

To date, the funds raised from the scheme have supported Curve's first Creative Venue Technician apprenticeship and the set-up of the Curve Young Community Company Technical group (CYCC Tech) which offers weekly classes to individuals interested in learning the skills necessary to have a career in the industry.

To hear about how the scheme has impacted our current Creative Venue Technician Apprentice, Li Li, please watch our interview with her below:

Donations received this year will support a number of activities and opportunities that will encourage young people from across Leicestershire, and from all backgrounds, to get involved in technical theatre. This includes continuing to support our 2022-23 CYCC Tech group, as well as enabling us to offer another young person a position as our next Creative Venue Technician apprentice with appointment taking place in the new year.

How you can support us

There are many ways you can support the scheme this year. These include:

Donating via Just Giving page

Donating whilst purchasing tickets either online (curveonline.co.uk) or at the Box Office over the phone (0116 242 3595) or in person

Contributing to bucket collections on selected performances in November

By Naming a Seat in our newly refurbished Studio Theatre

THANK YOU for enabling us to keep inspiring the next generation of theatre makers.