A theatre company which is due to stage its 20th anniversary outdoor summer tour across Kent has launched a fundraising appeal for £12,000.

The Maidstone-based Changeling Theatre's tour of gardens, parks, castles and other venues across the county has become a popular fixture in Kent's summer schedule, but its 2020 tour was postponed due to the pandemic.

But now artistic director Rob Forknall says this year's tour may be in jeopardy if the funds are not raised.

So far just over £5,000 has been raised.

He said: "We never ask our audiences for help but today we have to come cap in hand. We have started a gofundme appeal to raise £12k for the show this year.

"Every theatre company in the country is struggling to survive and we are no different - please help us by just donating the price of a meal in a restaurant, it really helps us get this show on the road.

"Changeling is Kent's only open air touring company offering opportunities for young people to take part in the show, giving a unique experience. Your donations will go toward helping us bring our unique brand of theatre to your local venue and help catapult these young people into the profession. Without your help we may not be able to tour this year."

The company if funded through box office takings, and with its young cast, has seen a number of its stars go on to theatre stardom, including Ellie Kendrick, who went on to play Meera Reed in Game of Thrones.

The 2021 tour is due to be A Midsummer Night's Dream.

To donate to the appeal go to gofundme.com/f/save-changeling-summer-tour

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