How can I raise money for a play?

Randomguy

I'm usually pretty good with Google for finding out how to do stuff, but maybe I am using the wrong terms here as I keep coming up blank.

Someone hinted to me on a course I attended that gaining funding for a play, to be shown at a Fringe event, was not as hard as it might first seem. But I cannot find a sniff of anyone offering small amount (less than a thousand) to unknown playwrights.

Anyone got any tips?

Liz

Oooh - hard. Because it won't just be a thousand will it, if you have to pay for the venue. And money to the ticket people to sell your tickets along withal the others, presumably.

I have a feeling that the Edinburgh 'fringe' office if there is one would be the place to start, as I've got a feeling that they have money which is given to support alternative/student/new upcoming whatevers etc stuff, but I also suspect you'd be doing it 2 years in advance.

Ok just had a look and they don't have money - except yours! This page tells you all the cost involved (quite a lot).

http://www.edfringe.com/participants/faq

I guess it depends what your play is about - who might sponsor you? Your company? Would they get advertising out of it? Who would gain by sponsoring you?

Betsie

There is funding available for arts events. Try asking the arts officer at your local council.

Phots Moll

This any help? http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/funding/grants-arts/

Liz

I applied for and won an Arts Council grant. Can give you advice, if you want it! It took me a few months though to get the answer through. It takes less time for small grants. Less than £5,000 I think, can't recall perfectly.

Randomguy

Yes please Liz, would love to have details.

I will whisper my email to you.