Theatre runners aim to raise money for unique club night (From Times Series)

Theatre runners from North Finchley aim to raise money for unique club night at artsdepot

12:24pm Friday 5th February 2010 in News By Kevin Bradford

A TEAM from a leading London theatre are in training to run a half marathon in aid of a club night event for young people with learning difficulties.

The five strong running group, made up of staff who work at North Finchley's artsdepot, in Tally Ho, are hoping to complete a 13.1 mile course around Bath to raise money for their Clive event.

The nightclub style evening offers people aged between 14 and 25, their families and their carers, a chance to enjoy an inclusive clubbing experience in a safe environment.

Education manager at artsdepot, Inga Hirst, said they hold workshops before the event to teach some of the party goers how to use DJ and video equipment so they can perform on the night.

“It's all about building up their confidence so they can enjoy the experience,” she said.

“It is a really important way for the young people to get out in a comfortable environment and meet friends and other people, and to have a good time.

“All different departments work together on Clive and it is such a big event for us, so it is nice to be involved in some fundraising.”

Staff hope to raise at least £750 towards Clive, which is the only club night organised in London that is aimed at young people with learning difficulties.

As well as music and dance space, there is a glow in the dark chill out room, live bands and a chance for some of the clubbers to take to the stage to perform karaoke.

Jennifer Raingold, marketing officer at artsdepot, came up with the idea of running a half marathon and said: “Because we all have an input into Clive, we wanted to raise some money for it and hopefully this will set a precedent for years to come when other people from artsdepot will do something for an event we organise.

“We think it is the first time anyone has done something this dramatic for the company but hopefully people will support us.

“We're doing it for a good cause, and for the challenge, and we just hope we finish.”

The other people taking part in the run in March are Ruby Baker, Jack Judd and Kieran Doyle.

To sponsor the runners, visit their just giving page at www.justgiving.com/cliveartsdepot.