THE Beacon Arts Centre has been hailed for a scheme raising thousands of pounds at their sell-out pantos to give more families chance of a theatre trip.

Culture Secretary Angus Robertson visited the arts centre to find out more about the 'Pay It Forward' project which will run again at this year's production of Jack and the Beanstalk starring Still Game duo Jane McCarry and Mark Cox.

At a time when the Beacon and other arts venues wait to find out crucial decisions on the future of arts funding, they invited the Scottish Government cabinet secretary along to see for himself what they offer.

The Beacon uses sponsorship and donations to buy tickets for children, young people and their families who otherwise would not be able to afford to go otherwise.

(Image: George Munro)

Culture Secretary Angus Robertson, who had a tour backstage and met with local groups, said: "Pay It Forward is an excellent example of a community-led initiative to make that happen and I want to commend Beacon Arts Centre and partners for this creative and innovative effort to strengthen and empower Inverclyde through the arts.”

Around 700 people this year alone have benefited from the £13,000 raised by audiences at the record breaking panto last Christmas as well as from supporters for the scheme.

Karen Townsend and Lesley Davidson who both co-directors at Beacon Arts Centre, were delighted to showcase the Beacon.

Karen Townsend, who used to work at the King's Theatre, said: “Access to culture is a vital part of people’s wellbeing and our mission is to make sure that as many people as possible have the chance to engage with the arts in enjoyable and meaningful ways.

“We are here to light up lives through the arts, and we are always looking for new ways to support audiences from all backgrounds to come and enjoy themselves and become part of Inverclyde’s rich cultural story."

Co-director Lesley Davidson, formerly of the Citizen's Theatre, added: “We were delighted to welcome the Culture Secretary to the Beacon to show him the difference we are making to people’s lives, and we remain hugely grateful to our generous audiences who each year support us in delivering the joys and creativity that the arts provide to all of Inverclyde’s communities.”

Barnardo's Inverclyde Family Support Centre is among those to benefit from the scheme 
 
Project worker Stephanie McLellan said: “The Pay it Forward scheme at the Beacon offers an invaluable opportunity for families who access Barnardo’s family support services.

“Many of our families face challenges like poverty and isolation due to disability or health conditions, and barriers that make it difficult to access the arts and learning activities.

“Donated tickets have given these families the chance to experience joy, inspiration, and community connection through events such as Christmas pantomimes, the Pop Diva show, Dinosaur Adventures, Bubble Man, and Ragnarok.

“This initiative breaks down boundaries and creates moments of happiness, bonding, and lasting memories that might otherwise be out of reach.”
 
Martita Dunn, recovery development worker at Inverclyde Community Care Forum, said:
“Getting tickets for shows at the Beacon has been incredible for our community at the recovery hub.

"The performances have given everyone such joy, with conversations about these nights carrying on for weeks afterwards.

“Not only has it been a truly special experience for everyone involved, but I was deeply moved to learn that many of these individuals, who have lived here their entire lives, had never been to the Beacon or a theatre before.

“This experience has left a lasting impact on all of us, and we are immensely grateful.”

Pay It Forward collections are made at the door with the stars of the panto encouraging people to donate.

The opening day of Jack and the Beanstalk is on Saturday December 7. 

The Beacon like other arts venue and groups around the country is awaiting a decision on the future of funding for Creative Scotland, which has been delayed until after the Scottish Government's budget.

On the importance of the Beacon, Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said: “Culture has an unmatched ability to connect and inspire people of all ages and backgrounds, benefiting individuals and the communities they live in.

“The Scottish Government is determined that everyone should be able to access these benefits, which can greatly improve the life chances of all people."