Maria’s donation kicks off Her Majesty’s campaign

The campaign to save Her Majesty’s Ballarat – ‘The Time Is Now’ – has launched with a bang with Ballarat local and long-time Her Majesty’s member Maria Ridsdale making a $50,000 donation.

Maria is one of Her Majesty’s Ballarat’s biggest supporters and says she felt a personal responsibility to help save the theatre.

“We have to do something to save this 143-year-old grand Victorian theatre. I could not sit back knowing funds were needed and not make a contribution,” Ms Ridsdale said.

“I really hope that my donation will encourage others to consider contributing. Every little bit will help and if we can all just donate what we can, I’m sure it will make a big difference to the campaign.”

“The theatre is the heart of our city’s cultural being and our creative arts scene simply would not survive without it. Her Majesty’s is crucial to our city’s identity and we all have a responsibility to save it.”

Emergency restoration works are currently being undertaken at the theatre with funds from the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning’s Living Heritage grant through Heritage Victoria, and a $5.3 million contribution from Council.

The Time Is Now campaign is lobbying the state and federal government for an additional $15 million to complete works to secure Her Majesty’s Ballarat for future generations.

Additional works required include an upgraded and expanded wing space, new passenger lift to stage area, new power flying system, new extended fly system, new green room and large dressing room, installation of the thrust stage/new orchestra pit, refurbishment and fit out of administration space, and installation of a quiet room.

The donations page at savehermaj.com is live now, accepting all contributions. All donations over $2.00 are tax deductible.