Secret Cinema has helped raise over £24,000 for mental health charities Mind in the UK and NAMI in the US from Secret Cinema Presents Dead Poets Society screenings to commemorate the tragic death of Robin Williams and to honour his extraordinary spirit.
Special Secret Cinema charity screenings were held across the UK, Prague and New York on 15th & 16th August with all profits going to Mind and NAMI. Live poetry was read including a reading by Harry Potter actress Bonnie Wright, live music, performance, special guests and supportive tweets from Stephen Fry, Ross Noble and Penguin Books. Donations are still being received via Text CINEMA to 70660 to donate £3 to @MindCharity #SeizeTheDay. People can also donate online at http://bit.ly/1Ahv0N5 until November 2014.
Amanda Palmer formerly of The Dresden Dolls in NY said: “Watching an entire audience weep in unison as those kids stood on their desks in solidarity for their teacher who taught them to embrace the freedom in art was one of the most life-affirming moments I've ever had. I think as artists if we want to leave any legacy behind, it's that: that what we created continues to connect us all to one another. We are glad that Secret Cinema is in the same spirit.”
Paul Farmer, Mind Chief Executive, said: “We are incredibly appreciative that Secret Cinema decided to honour Robin Williams in this way. The funds raised from this event will help Mind to be there for the one in four people who have a mental health problem so they get the support they need and the respect they deserve."
Fabien Riggall, Founder and Director of Secret Cinema said: “I see culture as therapy and a tonic. Robin Williams inspired so much in so many of us, I believe cinema should give back to those leading lights who give so much. All profits from the screenings have gone to Mind and NAMI, vital and brilliant charities supporting those suffering from mental health problems, and we encourage others to donate what they can as well.”
Secret Cinema Presents Dead Poets Society
Screenings Held:
UK
· Troxy, London
· Matthew's Yard, London
· Flying Duck, Glasgow
· Leaf, Liverpool
· Victoria Warehouse, Manchester
· The Strand, Belfast
· Cinema Society, Teeside
PRAGUE
· Grid, Prague
NEW YORK
· South Street Seaport in Manhattan
· Basilica Hudson in Upstate NY with an introduction by Amanda Palmer and Neil Gaiman)
· Videology in Brooklyn
