a smaller venue that would potentially attract touring shows that don’t currently have a suitable space in Northampton. It could also off er a space for local bands or small theatre companies, and as a community facility for groups, meetings, events and conferences. Everything is in place to begin the transformation, but the fi nal
hurdle is securing the money needed to make the space compliant, safe and fully functional. T e organisation is confi dent that once the initial investment is made, the venue will be self-sustaining. Leigh said: “It’s a done deal, as long as we can get the funding.
And with the plans we’ve got, it’s a good investment. We are confi dent we can grow in so many ways if we get the chance. “We have a breakdown of our income and our reach, and we’ve
got support from the Royal and Derngate, and the RSC have already provided all the seating for the new space, and we have this amazing group of people who love being here and just need more room. We could pretty much double the number of young people who come to Silhouette. “It’s a lot of money to fi nd, but we’re open to all kinds of discussions.
It might be that a company would like to have their name on the programmes or displayed on the lighting rigs. It certainly doesn’t have to be all the money; we can make it work with several backers providing whatever they can.” Silhouette provides teacher training in the creative space,
training more than 200 teachers last year. T ere are plans to develop that with, for instance, a Shakespeare conference, or Ted Talks. T e space also has potential for events, comedy evenings or business and community meetings. A large loading bay at the back, part of the shopping centre delivery provision, makes for easy access for sets and equipment. “We can see the potential to really make an impact,” said Leigh.
“For the young people, it’s not just about performing, they can learn about the technical aspects of the theatre. T ere is a national shortage of people trained in sound and stage management – this could be a chance to bring in apprentices and train them through a route that’s not traditional but could give them skills for life. “And, of course, the performing arts don’t just equip young
people for theatre or music, they give them the confi dence and self- belief that stands them in good stead in any career. It’s testament to our approach that many of the young people that have attended Silhouette have gone on to further education and for many of these young people, they are the fi rst in their family to do so. “What we are trying to do is about creativity and young people,
about their futures, but it’s also a chance to open up opportunities across the community – a meeting place, or bringing more people into the shopping centre to spend money with the retailers while they are here, for instance. “T is is an amazing opportunity, and we are just hoping we can fi nd the investment we need to help us make it happen.”
To fi nd out more, contact Leigh Wolmarans at
leighwol@silyt.com or visit the website
www.silyt.com
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