Support The Thunderbolt's fundraising appeal
Posted on: 02 Sep 2020The much-loved Totterdown venue is facing an uncertain future as a result of the coronavirus crisis.
The Thunderbolt has become the latest Bristol music venue to launch a crowdfunding campaign in 2020, as the team look to raise vital funds to cover fixed costs and essential repair work.
The Bath Road venue has been closed since the UK went into lockdown in March, and limited space has left it unable to viably host socially-distanced or reduced-capacity events in recent weeks.
Having been launched in August as part of a nationwide initiative led by the Music Venue Trust, the crowdfunding campaign has so far raised just under half of its £15,000 target.
Despite a range of financial support packages available to venues and cultural spaces across the UK, The Thunderbolt has been unable to access funding, leaving the team with no option but to appeal for support from the public.
Outlining their situation on their crowdfunding page, the owners explained that an application for Arts Council funding had been unsuccessful, and options regarding government support had been exhausted.
As a sole trader, the venue does not qualify for funding from the government's recently-unveiled £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund.
As a result The Thunderbolt, a centuries-old former tollhouse and a firm favourite among Bristol gig-goers, has become the latest in a long line of local venues to turn to the local community to help safeguard for the future.
Since the coronavirus outbreak, an array of iconic spaces have gone public with fundraising appeals, including The Old England, The Louisiana and The Gryphon among others.
Donations to The Thunderbolt's crowdfunder will be used to cover fixed costs and repairs, and the team have pledged any surplus funds to the Music Venue Trust as they continue to support struggling venues across the country.
Supporters who donate £20 or more will receive a Save Our Venues t-shirt provided by the Music Venue Trust.
To donate to The Thunderbolt, or to follow news and updates on their campaign, head to their crowdfunding page.
Read more:
-
September in Bristol: Ten things to do this month
Article by:
Editor - 365Bristol.com & LOUD Magazine
Matt is a Journalism graduate and writer, passionate about supporting Bristol music, art and independent business. Get in touch via email at matt@365bristol.com.
