Kimberley proposes to convert the location into an accessible, versatile and multipurpose venue for the Carlisle community and surrounding areas. The space, known as the Undercroft, has demonstrated its potential through its use by a number of Carlisle based theatre groups. By making essential improvements to the site, such as cleaning the space, adding a plumbing system, installing technical equipment, adding a removable sprung floor and creating changing rooms, she will transform the Undercroft into a safe and multipurpose environment, available to anyone who wishes to use it. Kimberley intends to create an accessible venue, suitable for all ages and types of performance, whether amateur or professional. Secondly the venture aims to aid regional talent retention. Thirdly Kimberley aims to reinvigorate a neglected historical space, that is currently disused, undervalued and forgotten.

What we'll deliver:

• Add plumbing facilities
• Add well needed technical equipment
• Clean out the premises
• Create a website

Why it's a great idea:

Carlisle has few spaces in which community theatre companies or groups can mount projects and even fewer non-conventional venues. Studio and performance spaces are extremely limited for those who do not want to, or cannot, pay significant venue hire charges. This is in stark contrast to the abundance of performing talent found in the city’s population. The result of this disparity: the talented leave to pursue their interests elsewhere; taking with them their skills and enthusiasm. Carlisle’s artistic potential rests on its ability to provide the talented with venues for expression. The undercroft will provide Carlisle (Cumbria and the North West) with one such venue. Performance art will have an adaptable and unique location where it can be celebrated and promoted. Providing a high quality venue, will encourage the creation of high quality work and will function as an accessible performance venue for those who require it.

Steps to get it done:

• Buy a sprung floor
• Buy technical equipment
• Hire a skip

This is to create initial support for the project and I am currently only looking for a small amount at this stage, Other funding will come from funders. This space has massive potential and will enable companies, groups and societies to engage with the arts, in inspirational surroundings. Once developed the venue will host regular events in the space. Suitable events will include: performance platform nights, where artists will have the opportunity to demonstrate their work and engage with the work of others. Amongst the many positive outcomes that events of this nature will generate include, creating potential partnership users, artist residences and commissions for the space, securing additional funding through both public and private avenues. This venture has the ability to be an amazing opportunity for Carlisle and Cumbria and any support from any individuals or companies or anyone who wishes to involved will be helping to develop this incredible space.