With more than 200,000 tickets sold every year, Lighthouse has been a cornerstone of life in Poole and the wider region for almost half a century.
Nationally significant and locally loved by its loyal audiences, it is one of the UK’s largest multi-venue arts spaces outside London, hosting thousands of performances, events, screenings, exhibitions and meetings every year.
Now, as part of its efforts to reach out to sections of the community that may not know Lighthouse as well as others, it has appointed it first Community Connector, Jenny Fawcett-Gray.
“It’s all about people and Lighthouse has a key role in responding to the needs of our local community,” says Jenny.
“I’m excited to meet people from across the region to understand what they need and want from Lighthouse, but as well as developing new connections, I’ll be working to strengthen existing collaborations. For instance, I’m hoping we can build on the amazing legacy of SALT, the community play for Poole that I took part in two years ago.”
Working on a six-month contract, Jenny is arranging meetings with local groups to hear what they think Lighthouse might be able to help them with.
“Jenny’s post has been funded by a generous grant from the Talbot Village Trust, for which we are incredibly grateful,” says Martha Earley, Community Engagement Manager.
“These are exciting times for Lighthouse and Jenny’s report will help us better understand the needs of the wider community, especially those communities that are disengaged or disconnected, and provide the evidence we need in order to pursue larger funding to expand our work in the community.”
To contact Lighthouse Community Connector to make an appointment or to arrange a visit, please email jenny.fawcett-gray@lighthousepoole.co.uk.
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