Some of the West End’s biggest names are lined up to attend the UK’s first ever theatre convention in London in November.
Inspired by BroadwayCon, the annual theatre convention in New York which offers theatre fans the chance to get closer than ever to the stars and shows they love, StageCon will be held over the weekend of 3 and 5 November 2018 at Shoreditch Town Hall.
Announcing the launch event, UK general manager James Yeoburn said: “StageCon presents a really exciting opportunity for fans from across the UK and the EU to come together in London to celebrate the magic of theatre. Those attending can expect to enjoy a diverse programme of 100-plus hours of events and performances from everyone’s favourite artists, theatre makers and shows – from the West End to London’s Fringe and beyond.”
Aimed at representing all aspects of the theatre, from musicals to plays, and opera to dance, the two-day event will feature stars from both stage and backstage. Those already confirmed to take part (subject to professional availability) include: Christina Bennington, Cameron Blakely, Samantha Bond, Sharon D Clarke, Louise Dearman, Sophie Evans, Alice Fearn, Carrie Hope Fletcher, David Hunter, Debbie Kurrup, Scott Paige, Steph Parry, Stuart Matthew Price, Caroline Sheen, Cherrelle Skeete, Charlotte Wakefield and Michael Xavier.
Programming will include a range of live performances, sing-a-longs, discussions, cast reunions, panels, games, exclusive previews, workshops, meet and greets, and showcases.
Stalls set up to share and sell a range of goods, merchandise and theatrical services will be housed within a ‘back stage experience’ specially crafted in the basement of the venue. Vendors and exhibitors already confirmed include the National Theatre Bookshop, Zeat Art, SIMG Records, WhatsOnStage, The Royal Theatrical Fund, Theatrical Rights Worldwide and MX Academy. Shaftesbury Avenue staple The Theatre Café is confirmed to operate a pop-up out of Shoreditch Town Hall’s on-site café.
The official venue partner for StageCon, Shoreditch Town Hall is one of the capital’s grandest civic buildings is already established as a flagship arts, community and live events space. For StageCon, its beautiful 750-seat auditorium will become the convention’s Main Stage, with its other rooms transforming into workshop and panel spaces. The upper floor will be home to the’ meet and greets’.
Presented in partnership with WhatsOnStage, StageCon will be donating a portion of profits to the Royal Theatrical Fund (RTF), which supports all who have worked professionally in the entertainment industry but have now fallen on hard times.
Commenting on the event, RTF’s president, Robert Lindsay, said, “We are all delighted that the Royal Theatrical Fund is the chosen charity for StageCon and are looking forward to being involved with this new and exciting opportunity for the theatre community.
“It is important that we let those in our industry know about the range of assistance we provide, including benefits advice and help with financial problems. We are a friendly and confidential first port of call for all involved in show business, not just performers.”
Angela Thomas
SHARE THIS POST:
Comments are closed.