Two popular Sheffield venues have joined a campaign as they fight for survival – this is how you can help
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Despite the easing of some lockdown restrictions, independent clubs, bars and theatres are still closed to enforce social distancing rules, leading to an unprecedented number of event cancellations – and a steep loss of income.
The Music Venue Trust has set up #saveourvenues, a national initiative aimed at rescuing hundreds of at-risk venues that are recognised as playing a crucial role in developing British music, boosting local economies and creating cultural vibrancy.
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Hide AdIn Sheffield, The Leadmill was the first to get involved in a bid to stave off debts and redundancies. So far the club has raised more than double its £10,000 target, largely down to donations made during a live-streamed concert staged by singer-songwriter Billy Bragg.
Now two further venues have signed up – Corporation, on Milton Street, and the Abbeydale Picture House.
The latter, a grand former cinema now run by the charity CADS South Yorkshire, is due to mark its 100th anniversary this year and has just undergone important work to help secure a premises licence.
“We have unfortunately lost all income to the venue, jeopardising the future of the project and the recently completed improvement works which were so generously funded,” the Picture House's crowdfunding page says.
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“Your donations will help ensure the Abbeydale Picture House is able to reopen its doors to the public once again after the current crisis has passed and it is safe to do so, by ensuring overheads are covered and staff's jobs are protected.”
Corporation, meanwhile, has set a target of £15,000. The club, which is also urging people to buy merchandise from its website, said its income ‘ceased overnight’ when it closed in March.
“The entire industry was asked to wait. We are still waiting. There is mass uncertainty within the industry; the ‘unknowns’ far outweigh the ‘knowns’. Making plans and preparing for everyone’s future is impossible. What we do know is money still going out and nothing coming in can only continue for so long.”
Funds raised will be split between Sheffield venues and the trust's nationwide pot.
