John and Mary Belchem have long been supporters of the Everyman and Playhouse theatres. As our YEP Fund challenge comes to a close, we spoke to John and Mary about why they continue to support our charity.

“As we have had the privilege to observe, the Young Everyman Playhouse opens up life enhancing and life changing opportunities for young people. The programme gives free rein to young people’s creative thoughts and ideas, encouraging experimentation, learning and development. It offers the time to grow and mature, secure in the knowledge that support will always be there. 

“YEP offers young people from a variety of backgrounds the chance to experience the arts, and demonstrates how music, drama and other forms of art can offer meaning, relevance, understanding and fulfilment.

“This wonderful programme provides space to support continuing interest in the arts and fosters the encouragement to explore possibilities and vicarious experiences for all involved. 

“YEP embraces the spirit of Liverpool at its best, recognising and developing talent on stage, backstage and front of house. Young people can write, produce, direct, and perform in a supportive and creative atmosphere and talent in all areas is nurtured and developed - there is recognition that theatre is so much more than just performing on stage. 

“YEP opens up a world of possibilities for future interest and careers enabling confidence and character building in an environment that celebrates communal and cosmopolitan enterprise. 

"The programme represents the inclusivity and diversity of Liverpool. It is a space where many young people from different backgrounds, abilities, interests, and orientation can work together to express themselves freely. Here at Young Everyman Playhouse, they can find a safe place where they belong.

"We feel we owe it to our young people in Liverpool to promote and support talent and creativity. That is why we support YEP and would encourage others to do so.”

Every donation, whatever the size, can gift an opportunity to young people in our city region through YEP. If you’d like to help us in supporting future generations to come, please consider giving what you can today.