Already pledging to donate their royalties for April 24 to Light Relief are the lighting designers of many shows, including a couple of overseas productions: Paule Constable, The City at Royal Court Theatre, Chris Davey, (no specific show); Rick Fisher, Billy Elliot UK and Australia; Rob Halliday, Equus UK tour and My Fair Lady US tour; Paul Pyant, Lord of the Rings; Malcolm Rippeth, Brief Encounter; Ian Scott, 39 Steps; Kevin Sleep, Woman in Black, James Whiteside for The Wedding Singer tour and Never Forget, donated in advance of its West End premiere in May; and Willie Williams, We Will Rock You, UK and French and Saunders Live Tour. Thanks to all these for their early commitment - it is hoped that more will join as Light Relief Day gets closer.
Light Relief Day was instigated by Rick Fisher in honour of the late Tony Gottelier as a permanent way of remembering him. As well as lighting designers, Rick hopes that more people and organisations will come on board this year, saying: "The first Light Relief Day in 2007 was a huge success and demonstrated how lighting designers are fully behind Tony's idea of having a fund to help members of the industry. It would be great if, say, the rental companies would climb on board, as well as more designers and suppliers."
Tony Gottelier was instrumental in setting up Light Relief, which aims to help lighting industry professionals in times of extreme hardship. Rick, who as well as being a co founder of the charity is also chairman of the Association of Lighting Designers (ALD), says: "Like most freelance people, lighting designers and technicians only earn when they are actually working. So if, say, a family crisis prevents someone working, they lose their income - but usually can't claim on insurance.
"Tony was universally respected in the lighting arena, and we thought it fitting that we dedicate a day to him, so that people can show their support to others in the industry. Many of us have done well out of our profession, and it's only right that we put some of that aside to help others."
Any individuals who support Light Relief Day can make full use of their donation by Gift Aiding their contribution, enabling Light Relief to claim an extra 28% in tax relief.
Rick concludes: "Last year proved what we are capable of - let's go all out to make Light Relief Day 2008 an even bigger success!"
(Lee Baldock)
