Liverpool Empire audiences raise record breaking total for Sahir during Moulin Rouge! The Musical

Liverpool theatre audiences have helped raise a record breaking £2,782.50 for local HIV and LGBTQ+ charity Sahir during a special fundraising appeal at Liverpool Empire Theatre.

The incredible total was collected in just one day during performances of Moulin Rouge! The Musical, making it the charity’s most successful bucket collection to date.

The appeal was launched with a heartfelt message on stage from Liverpool performer Scott Sutcliffe, who plays Baby Doll in the hit production. Scott encouraged audiences to support Sahir and the vital work the charity carries out across the Liverpool City Region.

Following the collection, representatives from Liverpool Empire Theatre presented Sahir with a cheque for £2,782.50, thanks to the generosity of theatregoers who donated before and after performances on Saturday 18 July using collection buckets and contactless giving points.

Simon Harris, Chief Executive of Sahir, said:

“This was far more than a fundraising appeal. It was an extraordinary act of solidarity.

“Every person who dropped money into a bucket or tapped a card machine has helped ensure that someone facing HIV stigma, isolation or discrimination will know they are not alone.

“The generosity of Liverpool audiences never ceases to amaze me, but what made this truly special was the warmth shown by everyone at Liverpool Empire Theatre and the cast of Moulin Rouge! The Musical. They didn’t simply give us a platform. They became champions for our cause. We are incredibly grateful.”

Diane Belding, Theatre Director at Liverpool Empire Theatre, added:

“The response from our audiences was phenomenal and demonstrates the generosity and compassion of Liverpool theatre goers.

“We are delighted Moulin Rouge! The Musical agreed to help raise awareness for a charity doing vital work across the city region. It has been a pleasure to work alongside Simon and the Sahir team, and we look forward to supporting them again in the future.”

Moulin Rouge! The Musical has been delighting audiences in Liverpool with its spectacular production, while the fundraising appeal has helped shine a spotlight on Sahir’s work supporting people living with HIV and members of the LGBTQ+ community across the region.

Moulin Rouge! The Musical continues at Liverpool Empire Theatre until 8 August 2026.

To find out more about Sahir or to make a donation, visit the charity’s website here.

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