Company Producer, Amanda, is running a fundraiser for her 30th birthday! Here’s more information:
I’m turning 30 soon and so I’m doing a little birthday fundraiser for a charity I really care about: Firebird Theatre.
I’ve never done a birthday fundraiser before but since it’s a ‘big’ birthday, I couldn’t think of a better organisation to highlight. Here’s a bit about the charity, in their own words:
About Firebird Theatre
Firebird Theatre is a Company of Learning Disabled artists based in Bristol. The company is supported by Bristol Old Vic.
Firebird Theatre work as an ensemble. We are experienced, Learning Disabled performers/actors with a consistent track record and history of making plays and performances together for over thirty years. We used to be called the Portway Players but we changed our name to Firebird Theatre when we became an independent Company in 2005.
What we do and why
We share the stories of Learning Disabled people through our work. We are a membership organisation – members make all the important decisions, develop our own artistic ideas, choose what stories we tell and what plays we perform and recruit every artist, collaborator and board member.
Our approach is grounded in self-determination and empowerment.
Our aims are:
To create a strong community of Learning Disabled people
To develop our creative and social skills, relationships, and self-confidence.
To exceed expectations and challenge stereotypes about what Learning Disabled people are capable of in our lives and in the theatre we make.
To reach big audiences and make disabled people feel seen and welcome at our performances.
We are a well-established, trusted organisation that enables Learning Disabled people in Bristol to lead and take part in high quality arts.
My connection with Firebird
I’ve known Firebird for about 7 years. I first worked with the company when I was at MAYK and we produced one of their shows, A Spark and a Beating Heart.
In 2022, I joined the Firebird board of trustees and got stuck in with future-planning and organisational development with the members.
This year, I was interviewed by company members and was hired as their Company Producer. I feel tremendously lucky to get to work with them, learn from them and be part of their incredible story.
Having been through a period of loss and isolation, the company are re-emerging and opening the doors to new members so they can share the Firebird Way with more Learning Disabled adults in Bristol. We’re currently running new member sessions, planning and fundraising for our exciting future plans.
I know times are tough and money is tight so any amount is greatly appreciated and makes a big difference to the company.
Click here to be taken to the donation page.
There’s absolutely no pressure to donate. If now isn’t the right time, you can donate or become a Firebird Friend at any time through the company website and there are plenty of ways to connect with Firebird by following us on Instagram, X and signing up to our mailing list.
Thank you,
Amanda xx