A stunning gala evening at Birmingham Hippodrome last Thursday night has raised over £10,000 to fund vital deep-reaching youth and communities programmes.

Co-hosted by Jon Gilchrist, Artistic Director and CEO, Chilina Madon, Executive Director and Catherine Mallyon, Chair of the board, the event on Thursday 27 June was attended by over 140 guests, supported by media partner Black Business Magazine. Gala guests were treated to a reception compered by BBC West Midlands presenter and broadcaster Nikki Tapper, a meal and tickets to the multi award-winning musical, Hamilton, which opened on 25 June for a 10-week run.

12 young dancers aged 14-18 from Shireland Collegiate Academy performed a specially choreographed hip-hop inspired piece of dance theatre created for the Gala night, pre-show, among the guest tables. The performers were rehearsed by professional artist and choreographer, Lindon Barr. As a platinum member of Hippodrome Educational Network (HEN), Shireland Collegiate Academy’s aspiring performers are given access to exceptional opportunities in performing arts throughout the year.

The sum raised will contribute to essential youth projects which enable access to theatre and performing arts. The event also ensures support for the Young Advocates scheme which puts young people at the heart of the Hippodrome’s decision making, helping shape their approach to working with young people.

Birmingham Hippodrome will continue to stage fundraising events to support their award-winning youth and community programmes, including the Hippodrome Education Network (HEN). HEN is a schools’ programme comprising 44 schools across the city-region, working with 40,000 children and young people each year.