Our beautiful building has fast become a beacon of the local community, however the current structure is not winter proof, meaning that we have to close our doors during the colder months. We need your help to insulate the building so that we can remain open all year round and sustain a constant and accessible programme of theatre shows and community workshops whatever the weather!

The Yard wants to make work that is borne out of the community in which it resides and is accessible to all. In order to do this, our ticket prices never exceed £12 and our Community Interaction Scheme sees us successfully partner with community centres in Tower Hamlets and Hackney. This scheme enables artists to rehearse within local community spaces and, in return, offer workshops to the community, sharing their skills and practice. We ran over 30 workshops in 2012. Here is an example: https://vimeo.com/54449603

What we'll deliver:

• Install natural fibre insulation throughout the warehouse

Why it's a great idea:

With a building that is sustainable all year round our work in the community could continue uninterrupted, resulting in a scheme that would be consistent and where more ambitious projects and workshops could be undertaken.

We are a 21st Century arts organisation built from an innovative use of reclaimed materials. We wish to extend those characteristics into the harder fabric of the industrial building in which we reside, so every element is demonstrative of a modern outlook with an acute awareness of environmental concerns.

The works funded by this scheme would also improve our sustainability in terms of energy efficiency and the amenity of our neighbours in terms of sound insulation from live art events, which act as showcases for talent in the local community. To see what we mean, check out this video: https://vimeo.com/54170456

We want to make The Yard a space that is welcoming to all individuals but need your help to make these crucial changes.

Steps to get it done:

• Engage a team who can carry out the work quickly and effectively
• Design the insulation
• Get the advice of an MEE consultant specialising in theatre sustainability
• Research and purchase natural materials to better insulate the space

A bit more about The Yard: In 2011 we built a theatre, bar and kitchen in a vacant warehouse in Hackney Wick. We aim to programme new work that is risky, honest and uncompromised, offering a platform to new and unheard voices.

The warehouse is split into two sections, one housing the theatre, the other, the bar and kitchen. We think there is a beauty in the collision between Greek and Elizabethan architecture and its juxtaposition with an industrial warehouse space with its beautiful concrete floor and raw materials.The Yard is very proud to be a fully accessible charity building, with accessible facilities and seating.

For more information about The Yard and the work that we do, please visit our website www.theyardtheatre.co.uk