Heligan Group sponsor Hippodrome Unlocked charity fundraiser

We see things differently at Heligan and advocate for new opportunities and perspectives, which is why we were delighted to sponsor a local charity which enables young people to have opportunities otherwise unavailable to them.

Hippodrome Unlocked is a commitment to access which provides tickets for young people from every Special Educational Needs school in Birmingham to attend a world-class performance at the Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre. Giving access to those who may not normally have the opportunity.

The charity fundraiser held at The Grand Hotel Birmingham was an art auction for pieces from contemporary artist Charles Pedone whose work features in all our offices. British-Italian and Birmingham born, he is lauded for expanding artistic boundaries through his inventive use of textured foundations, iridescent colourways, metallics and polished resin. We connected our team with Charles, the Hippodrome and Bentley to support the event which raised over £10,000 for the Hippodrome youth programme.

Sold for auction were pieces including ‘Harmony’, which has been on display since January in the Madeleine bar at The Grand, and another named ‘Blank Space’ - the chance for a bespoke commission by the artist.

Johan Scheepers, General Manager of The Grand Hotel Birmingham, said: “We’re delighted that this initiative has raised such a fantastic sum for the important work the Hippodrome does within our community. We’re equally pleased to say that some of Charles Pedone’s pieces, which have been specially commissioned for The Grand, will remain on display at the hotel as an extension of our collection of contemporary art by Birmingham and West Midlands based creatives.”

Charles Pedone said: “It’s a privilege to use my creativity to support the Hippodrome’s inspiring work, and whilst it’s always nerve-wracking to go to auction, it’s a brilliant way to raise funds, so I’m very pleased we’ve achieved such a fantastic result.”

Judith Greenburgh, Head of Fundraising & Development at Birmingham Hippodrome, added: “We’re grateful to all those who helped make this event a success - it’s been a fantastic team effort that has achieved such a brilliant sum that will go directly to providing more underserved communities in Birmingham and the Black Country with access to theatre and dance experiences.”

Speaking of the event, Heligan Chairman Keith Bristow said “Hippodrome Unlocked aligns very well with our ethos, by creating opportunities for young people to access the arts, building their confidence and sense of good citizenship. We’re delighted to be able to support such important work”.