Harrogate Theatre has teamed up with Ripon Races to launch a unique racing event this summer.
The Harrogate Theatre Pantomime Horse Race will be a fun and hilarious fundraising event where teams dressed in two-person pantomime animal costumes will gallop for glory at Ripon Racecourse.
It's all to support Harrogate Theatre’s 125th anniversary fundraising campaign.
The Theatre is bringing the event to life on Monday 4th August - and we can’t wait to see businesses, individuals and theatre supporters get involved.
Why They Need Your Support
In January, Harrogate Theatre launched a fundraising campaign to raise £125,000 in its 125th year.
This isn’t just a figure plucked out of thin air. The arts are struggling as many businesses are.
Whilst you see full houses at the theatre, what you may not know is that on average the theatre only receives 20% of ticket sales.
It’s this percentage of sales which is required to sustain the theatre as a charity to programme, market, provide customer service, open bars, provide technicians, maintain and replace the theatre equipment, and reach out into the community to delight and entertain audiences far and near across the year.
At a time of rising costs for us all, 20% is simply not enough.
Raising £125,000 will help safeguard Harrogate Theatre’s future – and every penny counts.
Thanks to generous supporters, they've already raised £40,000 – but still have a way to go.
By taking part in this brilliantly ridiculous race, you’ll be raising a laugh and raising money for the Theatre to continue doing incredible things in the community.
What’s Actually Involved?
On Monday 4th August, two people representing your company, or you and a friend, will head over to the beautiful Ripon Racecourse ready for a day you’ll never forget.
You’ll get free entry to the racecourse and participants will have exclusive use of the Claro Bar for the whole day.
It’s perfectly placed close to the bandstand, the parade ring, the eateries and most importantly - the racecourse.
Following a photo call for teams, the racing pair will trot over to the parade ring and take a turn in front of the punters.
It’s the perfect opportunity for the teams to size each other up and audiences to see who’s taking part in this iconic race.
Pairs will then canter over to the racecourse itself and make their way to the 100m start line.
You’ll be running the final half a furlong for your chance at glory.
Under starters orders you’ll be off and racing down to the finish line in front of adoring fans with live racing commentary.
The first pair over the finish line in their complete costume will be crowned winners and will receive their prize in the winner’s enclosure.
After the race, you’re welcome to enjoy an afternoon of racing and family fun at Ripon Racecourse.
It’s also Ripon Races’ Teddy Bear’s Picnic Day!
Each team will receive a teddy bear to decorate and carry on your horse’s back on race day as your ‘jockey’.
There will be prizes on the day for 1st Place, Highest Fundraiser and Best Decorated Jockey.
How Much Does It Cost to Enter?
There are two entry packages:
£250 | Pony Package includes:
- Entry for 2 racers + 2 guests
- Use of Claro Bar
- Pantomime costume
- Teddy bear jockey
- Official digital photograph
- Participant medals
£500 | Stallion Package includes
Everything in the Pony Package (see above)
Plus:
- An additional 2 guests
- Acknowledgement in our Autumn What’s On Guide
- Personal thank you on social media
- Recognition in carousel ads on our external theatre screens throughout August
Fundraising Target
Each team is also asked to aim to raise an extra £250 towards Harrogate Theatre’s 125th anniversary campaign.
Once you’ve signed up, they'll work with you 1:1 to help craft a personal donation message so you can share your own unique connection to Harrogate Theatre and why it matters.
Ready to Join the Race?
Help the Theatre celebrate 125 years of stories, laughter and community by taking part in this unforgettable event.
Sign up, saddle up and race for a cause!
Email natalie.rawel@harrogatetheatre.co.uk to sign up or ask any further questions.
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