We are pleased to announce that Unexpected Places Ltd has been granted charity status by the Charity Commission. This new status enables us to continue bringing drama and theatre to the public through our Unexpected Places productions and our youth theatre Light UP.
Charity status has been a long-held dream for Artistic Director Rosanna Sloan. The idea for professional theatre company Unexpected Places was born when Rosanna was performing at the Edinburgh Fringe, in her final year of training at Rose Bruford. The theatre company she imagined would specialise in creating original, imaginative performances, both in and from unexpected places.
Since then, Unexpected Places has created a reputation for creating thought-provoking, endearing devised performances; while it’s youth theatre, Light UP, has blossomed into an Artsmark partner, providing school outreach opportunities, drama classes and summer workshops for hundreds of children across Hampshire.
With the addition of new premises, UP Studios, the stage was set for us to continue to bring theatre and drama straight to the general public. It’s important to us that we contribute to the local communities we have become a part of, and charitable status lets everyone know that we are dedicated to achieving our goal of advancing the public’s education and appreciation of the performing arts. Rosanna commented,
"The past year has been tremendously difficult for arts organisations and our work is needed now, more than ever. We are delighted that the Charity Commission sees the value, and need, for the work that we do as a theatre company and a youth theatre and our formation as a charity marks the next exciting chapter for Unexpected Places. The team, and our newly appointed Board of Trustees, are poised to ensure we can provide cultural opportunities and experiences in our community and are looking forward to working in collaboration with funders and partners to deliver accessible, engaging and unexpected creative opportunities for all.”
In May 2021 the team expanded (find out who we are!) and between us we have no shortage of ambitious ideas for the future. Everything we do encompasses our shared passion for the performing arts, and our trustees help us to form a key part of our vision for the future;
“The Trustees are thrilled that Unexpected Places and Light UP has been successful in its ambition to achieve charitable status. Becoming a charity will help us build on the company's success and gain more support from funders, local authorities, donors and the general public. This will enable us to reach further and ensure our services are accessible to anyone who needs them. The pandemic has highlighted how important drama is to help young people regain confidence and be part of a supportive community. The Charity Commission's faith in us further underlines how vital our work is and motivates us to provide more great opportunities for young people.” Eloise Tong, Trustee.
A huge, huge thank you to everyone who has supported us on the journey so far. Stay in touch to find out where we go next!