Scenesaver

Scenesaver is the first ‘one-stop’ website where users can view footage of fringe performance; diverse shows and new work, whether it be drama, comedy, dance, children’s theatre, magic or musicals all in one place, online. Scenesaver provides a revenue stream for creatives unable to work during the pandemic – users are asked to pay a virtual ticket price donation and 100% of this money goes to the creatives. It is the host site for the OnComm awards, created to encourage creatives to make new work in the digital medium and get it seen. It is an entertainment hub for people missing the live theatre experience, making talented emerging artists and small theatre work accessible to new audiences, to people who would never normally have the opportunity to see this work. Accessibility is a key priority for the website and creatives are encouraged to submit subtitled, audio-described and signed versions of their work. When Fringe Festivals had to cancel live performances and go digital, Scenesaver offered an alternative platform for their creatives and performers, an opportunity to reach people beyond the local festival area, e.g. Wandsworth Arts Fringe and Reading Fringe. Scenesaver is building a community of creatives and theatre-lovers. Its blog features personal stories from many theatrical creatives impacted by the pandemic and helpful articles about how to create, record, subtitle and audio describe performances. Our Twitter actively engages with our creatives and the wider industry. When theatres reopen Scenesaver will continue to grow and ensure that people who have previously been deprived of the opportunity to see fantastic innovative, cutting edge performance, whether it be for reasons of disability, finance, work commitments, childcare or geography will not have to miss out on experiencing these shows. Scenesaver is making little theatre big and accessible to all.