The idea
Too many people feel isolated simply for being different - whether it’s because of their appearance, disability, or identity. GothFrog Productions is changing that. We’re launching a series of alternative community events across the UK, giving people a place to connect, create, and belong.
We already run Sophie’s Night, a music event promoting tolerance, and raising awareness for the Sophie Lancaster Foundation, and we want to expand. Imagine workshops where people can customise their battle jackets with new friends, learn sign language, have an opportunity to perform, try a new hobby or join an alternative choir. Think poetry nights, group classes, and safe spaces for self-expression. These events will be held in local halls, grassroots venues, and online for those who struggle with in-person spaces.
This isn’t just about events - it’s about creating a movement. A place where friendships are formed, creativity thrives, and no one feels alone. Community can save lives.
What we'll deliver
- Host at least one event per month in different UK locations, including gigs, workshops, and meetups.
- Run workshops on topics like battle jacket customization, BSL, alternative choirs, and poetry nights.
- Provide online options for those unable to attend in person, ensuring accessibility for all.
- Fairly pay grassroots musicians, artists, and venues, supporting the local creative scene.
- Create volunteering and job opportunities, especially for disabled individuals in inclusive roles.
- Foster a nationwide sense of community, giving everyone a place to belong, no matter where they live.
- Make events affordable, with profits split between charity initiatives and going back into the community.
Why it's a great idea
A Safe Space for Self-Expression: Many alternative and disabled people experience social exclusion. Our events will offer a judgment-free environment where everyone is welcome.
Building Friendships & Combating Loneliness: We know first hand that there are few spaces for young people to express themselves and even fewer opportunities for adults to meet like-minded friends. We want to change that.
Supporting Grassroots Music & Arts: We will fairly pay independent musicians, artists, and venues, ensuring local talent and spaces thrive.
Creating Opportunities & Inclusion: From volunteering to potential paid roles in the future, our events will open doors for disabled and marginalised individuals who often face barriers to employment.
Online Accessibility: We’ll stream events and run digital workshops for those with anxiety, agoraphobia, or other accessibility needs.
Steps to get it done
- Contact venues across the UK that can host your events, and book local artists for the first three events.
- Workshop Development: Secure facilitators for live music, cabaret, poetry, and creative workshops (2-3 months out).
- Online Accessibility: Set up streaming for virtual access, secure equipment, and test (2-3 months before first event).
- Community Outreach: Promote events via social media, flyers, and local partnerships (1 month before each event).
- Volunteer Recruitment: Callout online for volunteers and provide orientation or training (1-2 months before event).
- First Event Launch: Host the first live music event with workshops and performances (3-4 months after funding)
- Post-Event Evaluation: Collect feedback from participants and volunteers to improve future events (monthly).
- Finalise funding allocation for artists, venues, workshops, and event costs (2 months before event)
- Assign roles for event staff (e.g., event manager, volunteers) and conduct final checks (1 month before event).
- First Workshop - specialised
- Reach out to professionals in each area; people who use BSL, Fashion designers, music teachers etc
