There are some places that aren’t just buildings, they’re homes. The Epstein Theatre is one of those places. It’s where stories come alive. Where nerves turn into confidence under bright stage lights. Where friendships are formed in rehearsal rooms and futures are shaped backstage. Where young people discover their voices for the very first time.

For me and for so many others The Epstein Theatre isn’t just a theatre. It’s a sanctuary for creativity, belonging, and possibility. It’s the heart of our performing arts community and the proud home of NOW Festival, a space where emerging artists, young performers, and bold new voices are celebrated and given the stage they deserve.

But right now, there’s something missing. Not everyone can fully access that stage. And that simply isn’t okay. We are raising £20,000 to install an accessible lift to the stage, ensuring that every single person, regardless of mobility, can perform, create, and participate without barriers.

Because theatre should never have barriers. No young person should have to sit out because there are stairs.No performer should have to wonder if they’ll be able to reach the stage. No creative should feel excluded from a space that is meant to welcome everyone.

Accessibility isn’t a luxury. It’s not an optional extra. It’s a basic right. The arts are for EVERYONE.

Installing this lift means:

✨ Wheelchair users can perform freely.

✨ Disabled artists can take part without limitation.

✨ Inclusive productions become the norm, not the exception.

✨ Every child, every creative, every dreamer gets the same opportunity.

It means dignity. It means equality. It means belonging.

The Epstein has given so much to our community over the years: confidence, courage, careers, lifelong memories. Now it’s our turn to give something back. I truly cannot imagine a future where any young person walks through those doors and feels like the space wasn’t built with them in mind. This theatre shaped me. It shaped countless others. And I’m determined to help shape it into a place that welcomes everyone, fully and proudly.

If you’ve ever:

❤️ Found confidence on stage.

❤️ Felt safe in a creative space.

❤️ Watched someone you love perform.

❤️ Believed that art changes lives.

Please consider donating. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us closer to a theatre without barriers. Let’s lift the stage (literally and symbolically) so that everyone can rise with it. Thank you for helping us make the Epstein Theatre accessible, inclusive, and open to all.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, I will withdraw funds directly. It's the most efficient way to donate and saves time and costs.