Theatre-themed fundraiser ‘exceeds all expectations’

A theatre-themed charity dinner at the Gardyne Theatre in Dundee has raised a substantial amount of money for a cancer care charity.

Attendees at A Maggie’s Evening At The Theatre raised £12,000 for Maggie’s Centre, after enjoying a night of entertainment from the theatrical group Encore, and a meal catered by Wild Thyme.

The evening also saw the launch of the charity’s penguin art project, which will see penguin figurines adorn the streets of Dundee and the surrounding area.

Janice Aitken of Duncan and Jordanstone College of Art and Design (DJCAD) was responsible for the designs of the penguin sculptures, and said it was “great fun” to be involved with the worthwhile project.

She said: “When I was asked to be involved in this project I was delighted.

“Maggie’s is a really important charity that does amazing work with people whose lives are affected by cancer.

“The fact that the charity emphasises the importance of good design to wellbeing, and Maggie’s Dundee is situated in a groundbreaking building designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry, means that it was the ideal project for DJCAD to get involved in.

“Creating the sculpture was great fun and I’ve had loads of support from colleagues at DJCAD and Dundee University.

“Engaging with the public is very important to us and this project is the perfect opportunity to get people thinking about art and design in the community.”

Maggie’s Centre provides a warm and welcoming place for people living with cancer.

The charity, which in Dundee is based at Ninewells Hospital, are solely reliant on charitable donations in order for them to develop their unique programme of support.

Maggie’s aim is to make a big difference to the lives of people living with cancer.

Shirley Linton, chairwoman of Maggie’s Dundee fundraising board, said: “Saturday night exceeded all expectations.

“Thank you to all involved for the continued support.”