The team at Darwen Library Theatre are thanking the whole community after they reached their fundraising target to keep live theatre in the town.

After being one of the trailblazing theatres that launched the #SaveOurTheatres Crowdfunder campaign just a few weeks ago, the theatre reached the initial target of £3,000 last week and now look set to break through the extend £4,000 ambition.

Rebecca Weaver, Programming and Marketing Manager at Darwen Library Theatre and King George’s Hall said:

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support from the local community and beyond. Every contribution has helped us reach our target and the comments of support and the power of people sharing our messages on social media has definitely helped.

“We were thrilled to receive support from comedians Justin Moorhouse and Paddy McGuiness, who both got behind the campaign, having previously performed at the theatre. It’s amazing that the future of this very special theatre is close to so many hearts, not just locally, but across the country.

“We are looking forward to bringing the theatre back alive from this November.”

More exciting news came today, when Chris Difford, famous for both his solo work and partnerships with Glenn Tilbrook and band Squeeze, offered to perform a unique virtual concert for Darwen Library Theatre to help raise more funds. Details of the event will be available on the theatre’s website and social media very soon.

Councillor Damian Talbot, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council’s Executive Member for Leisure and Culture, said:

“The success of this campaign for Darwen Library Theatre shows just how much the theatre is valued by the whole community. We would like to thank everyone for supporting this campaign and helping to secure the future of this great community asset.

“Plans are already in place to bring performances back to the theatre next month. It’s great news.”