Bridlington Father Raises £1,500 for Scarborough Theatre Group

A father from Bridlington has successfully raised £1,500 for the Y Perform musical theatre group in Scarborough, following two significant running challenges. Stephen Blackford completed both the Great North Run and the Yorkshire Marathon in tribute to his daughter, Chelsea Blue, who passed away in April 2021 while at Cygnet Mental Health Hospital.

Y Perform, which serves young performers in Scarborough, benefitted from Mr. Blackford’s efforts as he donned an eye-catching pantomime dame costume during his races. This unique outfit, chosen by the children in the group, not only brought smiles but also highlighted the importance of community support.

Mr. Blackford’s commitment to raising funds stems from a desire to honor his daughter’s memory while also supporting his other daughters, Madison, 17, and Scarlet, 8, who are part of the theatre group. He remarked, “I believe Y Perform provided them with a safe space to be whoever they wanted to be, learning new skills… giving them confidence to be on a big stage and making forever friendships.”

The leaders of Y Perform, Liam Downey and Evie McGlinchey, expressed their gratitude for the generous donation. Downey emphasized that YMCA Scarborough, which oversees Y Perform, is more than just a theatre and dance class. He noted, “It’s a community where young people can feel like they belong, where they can find their spark, their voice, and their confidence.”

Y Perform does not receive local authority funding and relies on donations, sponsorships, and fees to operate. McGlinchey conveyed the impact of Mr. Blackford’s fundraising, stating, “The money will go directly into our future productions, helping us create better costumes and sets so our young people can continue to shine on stage.”

The initiative taken by Mr. Blackford not only highlights the significance of community and theatre in children’s lives but also serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of loss and the power of support. His story of determination and dedication resonates deeply, showcasing how personal challenges can lead to broader community benefits.