The Bright Foundation launched to bring the arts to children and young people
Hattie Fisk
Tuesday, July 19, 2022
East Sussex schools can now access the new Barn Theatre and Museum in Hastings free of charge.
Khali Ackford/ Trinity Centre
John Bright, philanthropist and BAFTA and Academy and Award winning costume designer, has launched The Bright Foundation to support young people in the arts.
The launch, which took place on 9 June, included the opening of the new Barn Theatre and Museum in Hastings, alongside a private collection of toys, puppets and model theatre sets dating back to the 18th Century.
Free access to the new theatre and museum will be given to schools colleges and community groups, initially across East Sussex and more broadly in the longer term.
The Foundation's programme includes school visits, summer schools, performance projects, cross-curricular learning, wellbeing retreats, volunteering, family festivals, skills training, and career support.
Talking about the launch, Bright said: ’My life’s work has been committed to costume design for film, tv and theatre and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been able to pursue this path. As my lasting legacy, I hope to inspire children and young people facing disadvantage, who would not normally have access to the creative industries, whilst at the same time showcasing the importance of nurturing creativity and free play through the ages.’
Hugh Bonneville said: ‘The Bright Foundation will ensure that a whole new generation has the opportunity to explore the what ifs of imagination and the arts. What a legacy, what a gift.’
Dame Judi Dench said: ‘The Bright Foundation sounds the most brilliant idea and exactly the sort of thing that I would have expected John Bright to do. I think it’s the most wonderful project and I would love to be part of it in some way. Of course, I support the charity to the hilt.’
There was also a family festival at the theatre and museum in celebration of its launch on 11 and 12 June.
