Liverpool Everyman launches anniversary fundraising appeal

Liverpool Everyman has launched a £60,000 fundraising appeal as part of its 60th anniversary which it hopes will highlight the importance of regional theatres and support talent development.

Everyone Starts Somewhere has gained backing from a host of the Hope Street theatre’s alumni including David Morrissey, Alison Steadman, Julie Walters and Willy Russell.

The fundraising appeal will support Young Everyman Playhouse and help bring new diverse voices to the Everyman and Playhouse stages.

It includes a series of events with those for whom the theatre was an important part of their creative lives.

They start on May 21 when Childwall-born Alison Steadman is set to take part in a special ‘An Evening With’ at the theatre. Tickets for the event, hosted by Roger Phillips, are £30 with all proceeds going to the appeal.

The Gavin and Stacey and Abigail’s Party star said today: "I'm thrilled to be returning to the Everyman to support their 60th Birthday campaign - Everyone Starts Somewhere.

“It's a theatre that means so much to me, giving me such a wonderful experience as a young actor to learn, gain confidence and take my first steps in the profession. That support of young talent continues to this day, and I hope long into its next 60 years."

Meanwhile Cathy Tyson, who was a teenage member of the Everyman Youth Theatre, added: “I’m indebted to the Everyman for giving me a start in my creative life... without them, I don't think I'd be where I am today.”

Above: The Liverpool Everyman.

The Everyman was founded in 1964 in the former Hope Hall, and was rebuilt in 2014 – winning the prestigious RIBA Stirling Prize for architecture.

The 60th anniversary celebrations include three homegrown productions – the first of these, Joe Ward Munrow’s The Legend of Ned Ludd, is being staged at the theatre until May 11.

Everyman and Playhouse chief executive Mark Da Vanzo said: “The Everyman has always been a beacon of artistic innovation, offering a stage for playwrights, actors, and directors to experiment and create. That spirit of experimentation and creativity has been a driving force ever since, shaping the identity of Liverpool's theatre scene, inspiring generations of artists and reaching far beyond the city.

“This year feels like a unique opportunity to celebrate our past, while looking to the future. We’re grateful for anyone who feels they can support, either by making a donation, buying a ticket, or sharing on their social media what the Everyman means to them.”

An Evening with Alison Steadman takes place at the Everyman on May 21. Tickets HERE