Coronation Street and Mr Bates vs The Post Office star Julie Hesmondhalgh and Fast Show comic and Cold Feet star John Thomson, both patrons of The Edge Theatre & Arts Centre in Chorlton, Manchester, have thanked supporters after the theatre reached its £20,000 fundraising target through its The Big Give campaign for the homeless.
The vital funding, which will be doubled as part of the Arts for Impact match funding, will directly support The Edge’s life-changing work with The Buzz, its specialist programme working with people affected by homelessness, as well as adults with learning disabilities.
Based in the heart of Chorlton, The Edge Theatre & Arts Centre is a vibrant and welcoming arts venue, creative hub and registered charity dedicated to using the arts to transform lives, offering a diverse programme of professional theatre, comedy, music, and community-led performances. Its work plays a crucial role inspiring creativity, confidence, and community in Manchester.
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Hesmondhalgh, who was a founding patron of the theatre alongside Oscar-winner Mark Rylance, said: “The arts matter. They bring people together, help us make sense of the world, and give a voice to those who often go unheard. The Edge is a beacon of creativity and inclusivity, and the fact that people have stepped up to support it so generously means everything. Thank you to everyone who donated – you’ve helped make something truly special happen.”
Fellow patron, comedian, actor and drummer Thomson took on the character of his iconic Fast Show Jazz Club character, Louis Balfour, to deliver a video message addressing the news: “This is grrrreat! I knew the fantastic supporters of The Edge would come through, and they absolutely have,” said the smoothe jazz afficianado. “This place does incredible work, and hitting the £20K target means they can carry on making a real difference. A huge thank you to everyone who got involved. Nice!”
The Big Give campaign plays a crucial role in sustaining arts and culture charities across the UK, offering match-funding opportunities to double the impact of public donations. As the arts sector continues to face financial challenges, campaigns like this are a lifeline, ensuring that organisations like The Edge can keep delivering transformative projects that benefit individuals and communities.
Janine Waters, artistic director at The Edge said: “We are absolutely over the moon to have reached our target, and it’s all thanks to the incredible kindness of everyone who donated. Every penny will go towards creating opportunities for people who need them most ~ whether that’s someone affected by homelessness discovering their voice through theatre or an adult with learning disabilities gaining confidence through performance. The arts change lives, and this support ensures we can continue our vital work.”
To find out more about The Edge and its work here.
