THE HOPE PROJECT: A RAY OF LIGHT FOR SOUTH AFRICAN ENTERTAINERS - AS THE EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT SECTORS ARE HIT HARD 

The COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown measures have had far-reaching effects on several industries throughout South Africa. But one of the hardest hit is the entertainment business.

 For professional entertainers, livelihoods have been suddenly shattered, and hunger has become frighteningly real. But this stark reality has prompted decisive action from one of the entertainment industry’s own, and a glimmer hope has emerged for embattled entertainers, even as the spotlight continues to grow dimmer.  

Spearheaded by Hayley Bennett-Freidin Director, Producer and Creative Director from the Tailormade Group, and her husband Warren, MD of AV and Beyond together with their business partner Head Choreographer, Liam Anthony, the Hope Project SA aims to keep South Africa entertained while safely creating job opportunities for performers who have found themselves “cancelled” or “postponed” and without any source of income  “

The Hope Project SA will run a number of initiatives of support, including online streaming of productions, as well as projects such as the newly launched facemask initiative. These programmes will provide work for those in our embattled industry and provide relief funds, that out of work entertainers and events people can apply for,” says Hayley. 

For many talented artists and crew facing dire financial emergencies due to COVID-19, the Hope Project SA is a welcome ray of light in dark times. And, as the country prepares to enter lockdown level 3, you can provide support for our hardworking entertainers in need by buying facemasks from the Hope Project SA’s website on www.thehopeprojectsa.co.za. 

All proceeds generated through the sale of these masks will be donated to the Hope Project SA, helping provide relief for freelance performers and technical crew in need. These reusable, triple-layer, cotton face masks are unisex, come a variety of sizes from children to adult, are machine washable and tumble dryer-friendly. They are also fitted with interchangeable D15 filters, which last for up to five washes. They are also certified. 

“To allow for the masks to be manufactured, our premises have been converted to a workshop, which is providing continued work for industry seamstresses.  These highly skilled people have made stunning costumes for years, and are now making high quality masks, while entertainers are being employed to pack and deliver them. Besides providing much-needed work for entertainers and crew, the project also provides a platform via the website that allows artists and technical people to apply for relief in the form of vouchers redeemable at reputable stores for food, electricity and data,” concludes Hayley.

 Most of us have, at some stage in our lives been thoroughly entertained by the thrill of a live performance. These are memories that will stay with us for years to come. Now, as entertainers try to pick up the pieces and bounce back from the crisis they face, perhaps you could spare a thought with those fond memories in mind, and provide a moment of relief for some of the entertainers who have made us smile. 

To order your mask and to find out more about the Hope Project SA, visit www.thehopeprojectsa.co.za today.

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Issued By:The Lime Envelope
On Behalf Of:The Tailormade Group
For Media Information:Kerry Oliver
Telephone:011 467 9233
Email:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

About the Tailormade Group

 The Tailormade Group comprises state-of-the-art facilities and a high calibre group of production professionals with a wealth of experience in the entertainment industry. We specialise in professional productions, choreography, stage management, artist bookings and costume design/manufacturing. We set new benchmarks for exceptional corporate events and entertainment and continue to work tirelessly to inspire our audiences and clients. 

About AV and Beyond:

AV and Beyond is a full-service supplier of state-of-the-art audio visual, lighting and sound equipment, multimedia and dynamic staging. AV and Beyond provides expert technical guidance and support at both real-world and virtual events, along with a personal touch of magic. Discover ambiance, character and explosive sights and sounds at your next event experience with AV and Beyond.