Name a Seat

Naming a seat is a personal way for you to support Lighthouse.

Naming a seat is a great way to support Lighthouse and the community we serve. You can do so in your own name, or you can dedicate your seat to someone special – your school or company, family members, or your loved ones. Whatever you decide, your donation will go right to the heart of what we do.

In recognition of your support, you will receive:

  • An inscription engraved on a plaque and mounted on your chosen seat for 10 years
  • Acknowledgement on our website and in the programme of any Lighthouse in-house productions for the duration of your sponsorship
  • A chance for you to come and see your seat at a quiet time for a photo opportunity

To name a seat, simply complete and return an application form, which you can download below.

If you’d like to find out more, please contact the Development team on 012020 781310 or development@lighthousepoole.co.uk.

Thank you for thinking of us.

Name A Seat FAQ

Can I choose my seat?

Seats will be named on a first-come, first-served basis. You will be given the choice of stating if you have a preferred seat. We will aim to accommodate your wishes as far as possible.

Please note that a few seats may be removed for some shows, depending on seating configuration.

What message can I put on my plaque?

You can include a name on your plaque, along with a personal message of up to 50 characters. For example, you might like to include a quote or a dedication, such as “Donated by”, “A gift for”, or “In memory of”.

Please note there is a maximum of 3 lines available.

Where will the plaque be located on the seat?

In the Concert Hall, plaques will be fixed to the front of the seat. In the Theatre, Sherling Studio, and Cinema, the plaques will be fixed to the seat return.

How will you confirm how my message will appear?

Once we have received confirmation of your message, we will contact you to acknowledge your donation and provide a proof of how the text will appear on your plaque. We will then ask you to confirm this proof for our records and this will be taken as your final approval for the engraving.

We will take great care to ensure that your plaque is correct against your approved copy before it is affixed to the seat.

Please note that Lighthouse reserves the right to approve and adjust the final messaging on your plaque.

Can a group of people name one seat?

Yes, of course. It is also possible for a group to name a selection of seats in the same or adjacent rows to create a block.

How long will the plaque remain on the seat?

Your plaque will remain for a minimum of 10 years. After this period, Lighthouse holds the right to remove the plaque. If this occurs, we will contact you regarding collecting the plaque or renewing your sponsorship.

When will the plaque be fixed to the seat?

We will write to you to acknowledge your donation and confirm the details of the plaque. Once payment is received, the plaque will be installed within 60 days.

How do I pay?

You can pay for your seat by cash, cheque, or debit/credit card in person, by post, or over the phone. You can pay upfront or in 10 equal monthly installments.

Please note that personal donations will be eligible for Gift Aid, which can make your donation worth more. For every £1 you give, we receive an additional 25p from HM Revenue and Customs. If you pay tax at the higher rate, you can claim further tax relief in your self-assessment tax return. If you are eligible, we would be grateful if you could inform us and we will send you a form to complete.

When can I view my plaque?

We will contact you to arrange for you to come and see your seat at a quiet time for a photo opportunity.

Will my name and dedication appear anywhere else?

With your agreement, acknowledgement of your support will be included on our website as part of our Supporters page [link] and in the programme of any of our in-house productions.

Will I always be able to sit in my seat and do I get free entry to all performances?

Lighthouse cannot promise you will be able to sit in your named seat. However, if you book well in advance and advise the ticket office of your preferred seat then it may be possible for you to sit in or next to your seat.

Naming a seat does not entitle you to attend performances free of charge or allow for any future discounts on tickets/events.

What will my donation support?

Your generous donation will help us support the creation of new work and expand the opportunities of young people through our education programme, Lighthouse Academy:

Lighthouse Academy – Lighthouse (lighthousepoole.co.uk)