Swanage theatre launches campaign to raise money to secure future

The Mowlem Institute Charity in Swanage is hoping to raise the money in 2023 by holding a number of ambitious activities. 

Kicking off the year-long fundraising activities is the launch of Take Your Seat, an opportunity to dedicate a seat to a lost loved one, family member friend, inspiration or even your own name at the Shore Road venue.

For a £200 donation, a personal message of up to 40 characters will be engraved on a brass plaque and placed on a seat in the auditorium. Plaques will remain on seats for ten years.

To officially launch the campaign, The Mowlem has dedicated the best seat in the house, J13, to its first patron, the award-winning film director Edgar Wright.

Edgar grew up in Swanage watching movies at The Mowlem as a child.

Edgar Wright at the Mowlem Theatre in Swanage

Read more: Hot Fuzz's Edgar Wright announced as patron for Swanage theatre

Laura Dickens, trustee and fundraising chair, said: “2023 marks 160 years of the Mowlem Institute Trust, so what better way to celebrate than by launching an ambitious and vital fundraising year of activities? 

“Every penny raised this year will enable our beloved theatre, cinema, showbar and community space to remain open for everyone to enjoy.  

“We have big plans, and we know the generous businesses and people of Swanage and beyond will help us reach our ambitious target."

Donations will fund updates to the auditorium, including a new lighting desk and communications equipment to facilitate improved communication between front of House and auditorium staff during live shows and cinema screenings.

Funds will also contribute to running costs of The Mowlem and reducing a Covid Business recovery loan, which will enable the trust to continue offering a variety of entertainment for everyone in Swanage. 

Details on other fundraising campaigns will be released soon.