VAULT Not Opening

Organisers of the annual VAULT Festival, which has run for over twenty years, have announced that it will not be going ahead in February and March 2024. The much-anticipated decision confirms that in the time available it has not been possible to find a new home, following the loss of their Waterloo Arches site at the end of last season.

Hope for a VAULT Festival 2024 in the autumn

All is not lost, however. A special expanded edition of the work-in-progress festival, A Pinch of VAULT in the usual February and March VAULT Festival period will take place at The Glitch and additional venues in the Waterloo and South Bank area. It will also provide opportunities for larger work-in-progress shows and different types of work.

Meanwhile, the search for a new location goes and there is hope for a VAULT Festival 2024 in the autumn, with applications opening in the early part of that year.

Inevitably, money is still needed to ensure the Festival's survival. The team’s plea is straightforward: “If you’re able to donate, we’d be extremely grateful. Alternatively, you can pick up some cool VAULT Merch, or gather your pals and undertake the first VAULT Quest: A Bridge Through Time. Every penny helps towards our mission to #SaveVAULT”.

Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this article has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Donate to Theatre MAD now

Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
Donate to Acting For Others now