When the COVID-19 pandemic shook the world, live entertainment production came to a complete stand-still. Behind the productions, countless designers, technicians and roadies all lost their way of life overnight. Needing the support of the industry to which they have given so much, the North American team at Robe Lighting, Inc. is excited to announce Robe Backstage, a charitable foundation giving back to lighting professionals behind-the-scenes of live events.
Established in 2020, Robe Backstage is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to providing financial assistance for entertainment lighting professionals. Whether facing financial challenges associated with serious injury, illness, or loss of employment due to mandated production shutdowns, Robe Backstage offers assistance for any professional lighting designer, programmer, operator or technician who lives within the United States, Canada, or US Provinces.
“Knowing that we would not have a live entertainment industry without the production professionals working tirelessly behind-the-scenes, we wanted to establish a foundation to support them in their greatest time of need,” said Craig Burross, Robe Backstage Director. “Fully funded through online donations, Robe Backstage disperses 100% of the funds received and we are fully committed to supporting those who are the backbone of live production.”
Debuted through a sponsor partnership with Relix and Fans Be The Stream, Robe Backstage began accepting applications, donations, and dispersing financial assistance. With 501(c)3 application delays impacted by the COVID pandemic, Robe Backstage has now received official non-profit status and is launching an array of SWAG items available for purchase. All funds raised from the SWAG sale will be distributed directly to applicants in need, and SWAG items include Backstage T-Shirts, Ball Caps, Backpacks, Coffee Mugs and Pennants.
For more information on Robe Backstage including how you can help out, how you can apply for financial support, or how you can check out the Robe Backstage SWAG for sale, visit www.robebackstage.org.
All applications for assistance are reviewed by the Robe Backstage administrative team and no decisions of support are based upon race, religion, sexual orientation or gender identification.