Theatre gets into spirit of giving

Baycourt manager Pip Loader is hoping patrons and performers will leave foodbank donations under the Christmas tree. Photo / Joel Ford

Baycourt Theatre is getting into the Christmas spirit by encouraging performers and patrons to leave a donation for the Bay of Plenty Times Christmas Appeal for the foodbank under its Christmas tree.

Theatre manager Pip Loader this year decided to use the Friends of Baycourt Christmas tree in the foyer to remind people about the importance of giving during the silly season.

"We just thought it would be a good opportunity to utilise it," she said.

"If people are coming to a show or if they are coming to buy tickets we just encourage them to bring a can in."

The message has been spread on Facebook, in the newsletter, in emails to ticket holders and on the Tauranga City Council intranet.

"For the 7 Days show, that's sold out, that's 577 cans," Mrs Loader said.

She is also hoping a large number of the Tauranga City Council staff will pop over and leave a contribution.

"It's nice to see lots of different organisations getting behind it. We're a community centre so it's, 'how can we give back to the community'."

Greenpark School has also done its part to support the appeal. Students filled six medium-sized boxes with food and personal hygiene products for the Tauranga Community Foodbank.

So far $17,225 in cash has been donated as well as 4865 items bringing the total to more than $24,522. Each item is being valued at $1.50.