NEW YORK – By Design Day 2010, which is set to raise money for Behind the Scenes in the U.S. and Light Relief in the U.K., is April 24. To date, over 30 of the industry's top designers have pledged a day's royalties to the two charities. Although the majority are U.K. or U.S. specific, several are international. By Design Day's organizers report that they are receiving royalties from shows in about 15 countries.
Although By Design Day was conceived as a way to raise funds through donated royalty, organizers are happy to receive donations from businesses and individuals not in a royalty situation. Scenic, audio and lighting rental companies, for example, can show their support with a day's rental fee or a single donation.
Established in 2007 as Light Relief Day and now renamed By Design Day, April 24 is the day that, each year, people in the professional entertainment design business give something back to help others less fortunate than themselves.
Organizers hope to exceed the $11,500 raised last year with this year's effort, and it's not too late to join the list of 2010 supporters including Ann Wrightson, James Whiteside, Jennifer Tipton, Nick Schlieper, Tim Mascall, Mike Baldassari and Neil Austin. To see a full list go to www.estafoundation.org/bts/events/btsday2010donors.htm .
Since the beginning of the year, Light Relief has helped three lighting designers in the U.K., while in North America Behind the Scenes has issued 13 grants to individuals involved in every facet of production. In each case, as well as the financial aspect, it has been the speed at which the charities have been able to respond that has proved particularly helpful.
For more information, please visit www.estafoundation.org/bts.htm or www.lightrelief.org.uk
