The launch of the telephone campaign to raise money to buy and refurbish the theatre took place in The Phone Room, Oxford’s non-profit making call centre. This is the first time that celebrities have been used in this way for fund-raising by The Phone Room.
David Suchet, who started his career at The Watermill, is clear why he thinks it is vital to save the theatre:
“Under the Artistic Directorship of Jill Fraser, The Watermill Theatre has been entertaining people for twenty-three years. This is a theatre whose productions have the power to bring joy, sadness, laughter – and inspiration – to anyone who walks through its doors.
"The Watermill is a regional theatre whose success belongs to its audiences, and whose international reputation has been deservedly earned. As an actor who began his career here, The Watermill fulfils my vision of a perfect theatre. We have only a short time to bring these funds in, and the appeal simply will not succeed without the love and support of our audiences.”
There has been an encouraging response to the appeal so far with many people organising their own fund-raising events.
Susan Foster, Development Director for The Watermill Theatre says:
“The response has been brilliant, like a pebble in a pond. There is a lot of work going on behind the scenes, and the nice thing about the telephone campaign is that it gives us the opportunity to engage with the audience.”
For more information about the Save The Watermill appeal contact Susan Foster on 01635 570928
or e-mail appeal@watermill.org.uk