Latest news with #SaveAberdeenArtsCentre
The National
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Brian Cox and Amy Lennox back Aberdeen Arts Centre fundraiser
Aberdeen Arts Centre has launched a three-year fundraising campaign as it aims to raise £660,000 to support its operations in a bid to keep the organisation's doors open for future generations. The Succession star is just one of many famous Scots who have backed the campaign, as Call the Midwife star Laura Main and Kinky Boots and Cabaret actor Amy Lennox have also given their support. Hollywood director Jon S Baird, magician Barry Jones, and virtuoso percussionist Evelyn Glennie have also lent their support to the Save Aberdeen Arts Centre campaign. READ MORE: Seven key points from the new UK-EU Brexit deal – all you need to know Eve Nicol, programming and creative director, has called for audience members to donate £11.25 each in a bid to reach their first goal. She said: 'Aberdeen Arts Centre is home to more than 35 local performing and community groups that make use of the venue every year. 'The centre's Creative Learning and Artist Development programmes also offer support to those engaging in the arts at all levels, from beginners of all ages to local professionals furthering their craft.' Nicol added: 'The opportunity to perform or express yourself creatively can be a lifeline for people of all ages, for so many different reasons. That's why we are so passionate about supporting grassroots performance. 'It's not just about the joy of stepping on stage; it's also about the skills you learn for life, including teamwork, resilience and self-confidence. (Image: Aberdeen Arts Centre) 'Appearing on our stage sets up so many young people for life, whether they choose to pursue the arts or another career. Without major support, we risk losing that vital resource here in Aberdeen.' The centre, which opened more than 60 years ago and has a 350-seater auditorium, has warned of a 'critical funding gap' as running costs rise. Spiralling operational costs have forced the organisation to dip into its reserves, which in turn, has meant it has become ineligible to apply for certain grants. Bosses at the Aberdeen Arts Centre have set an initial target of raising £180,000 by July 1, in a bid to increase reserves before going to Aberdeen City Council to ask for funding to be reinstated. Chair of the Aberdeen Arts Centre's board of trustees, Sharon Robertson, said that even a small donation would help protect the venue's future. She said: 'Since its inception, Aberdeen Arts Centre has been a creative lifeline for local performers, artists and audiences alike. Through donations and subsidies, we've kept our venue accessible, ensuring the arts remain a vibrant part of our city. But today, we need your support more than ever. 'The cost of running the centre has surged in recent years, creating a critical funding gap. We've recognised the need to diversify our income streams and are actively implementing a sustainable financial strategy to secure our future.' Robertson added: 'Every contribution, big or small, helps protect this space for the local creative community. Your support keeps artists on stage, ideas alive, and culture thriving. Aberdeen Arts Centre has faced hardship before. In 1998, renowned local drama teacher Annie Inglis gathered 14,500 signatures to save the centre from closure. You can click here to donate.
The Herald Scotland
19-05-2025
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Airline's new route from Scotland to 'spectacular island'
Edinburgh Airport said Icelandair is to become the latest addition to the city flying to Iceland. Icelandair will operate the Edinburgh to Reykjavik service from September to April, flying up to four times a week. The new service provides direct connectivity to Iceland's capital city, as well as onward transatlantic connections, opening the option for passengers to add a stopover in Iceland at no additional airfare. It will operate on a Boeing 737 MAX 8, with economy and premium cabin options, and the first flight will launch on Friday, September 12. Gordon Dewar, chief executive of Edinburgh Airport, said: "We are delighted to be welcoming another new airline to Edinburgh Airport, especially as this is something we have been working on for several years. "Providing more connections from Scotland's busiest airport is what drives us, and Icelandair provides fantastic direct connectivity to Reykjavik as well as its strong onward connectivity to countries like Canada and the USA. "This is another fantastic show of confidence in Edinburgh Airport, our market, and the clear demand for travel, and we look forward to seeing the Icelandair tailfin arrive here in September." Icelandair said the destination is rich with offerings including the "spectacular" Northern Lights. Bogi Nils Bogason, Icelandair president, said: "Not only will this give the people of Edinburgh and surrounding areas the opportunity to visit Iceland and other great destinations on our network, but it will also allow more access to the beautiful capital of Scotland. Our network now spans more than 60 destinations, and travellers can make the most of their journey by taking advantage of our stopover programme, enjoying a stay in Iceland along the way." Brian Cox among famous faces backing Save Aberdeen Arts Centre appeal Brian Cox is among the actors and celebrities who are backing a campaign to save Aberdeen Arts Centre. The appeal is looking to raise £660,000 to support the operations of the arts centre and has also been supported by Call The Midwife's Laura Main and fellow Aberdeen actress Amy Lennox. Hollywood director Jon S Baird, magician Barry Jones and percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie are also backing the campaign which will cover the next three years of core running costs. The venue is implementing a new strategy to keep the creative and community venue open and is hoping to hit an initial target of £180,000 by July 1. MONEY HQ 💷 Has bad news for the market changed for UK and companies? This article appears as part of the Money HQ newsletter. After what seems an endless period of negative news about the UK and its companies, has the story changed?
