Visitors to PLASA in October are being asked to contribute £5 to enter a raffle organised by new UK industry charity Behind the Scenes, which helps entertainment technology professionals or their families who have become seriously ill or injured. Raffle prizes are Amazon Gift Cards for £100, £250 and £500.
The raffle is to help raise funds for Behind the Scenes, which provides grants to entertainment technology professionals: these may be used for basic living costs, some medical-related expenses, transportation, retraining, or funerals. One grant recipient said: “I just want you to understand how much easier your help is making my recovery. It’s like having a fairy godmother.”
Behind the Scenes has a very wide remit. Anyone is eligible for assistance who has earned their living in the industry for at least five years, whether behind the curtain in any type of performance venue, behind the camera, on the road, or working for companies that manufacture or supply entertainment technology products and services. The charity exists solely to aid those who work behind the scenes; it does not assist performers.
The £5 raffle tickets will be available throughout the show (4-6 October) at the Behind the Scenes stand (C10). The draw will be held on Tuesday afternoon, 6 October, but ticket buyers do not need to be present to win a prize.
The stand will also feature the BTS Boutique, a selection of fun and useful BTS-branded items.
