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2024-04-30-accounts

Registered Charity Number 1166449

ALPHABETTI THEATRE (A Charitable Incorporated Organisation)

REPORT AND ACCOUNTS For the 11 months ended 31 March 2024

1

ALPHABETTI THEATRE TRUSTEES’ REPORT 11 MONTHS ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

The Trustees present their report and the unaudited financial statements of the charity for the 11 months ended 31 March 2024.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Charity number 1166449 (England & Wales) Principal address Alphabetti Theatre, St James Boulevard, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4HP

Trustees

The Trustees of the charity during the period and to the date of signing this report are as follows:

Mr Jon Farthing (Chair) Mr Hamish Carter Ms Christina Dawson Ms Ruth Patterson

Independent Examiner Pete O’Hara FCA, Chartered Accountant, 26 La Sagesse, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 3AF

Bankers

HSBC, 110 Grey Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 6JG

Governing Documents

Theatre In Motion was established as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) on 8 April 2016. The company subsequently changed its name to Alphabetti Theatre. As a CIO it is governed by its constitution.

Objectives and Activities

The charity’s objects are to promote, develop and maintain the public's understanding and appreciation of the arts, in particular the dramatic arts.

Activities for the Public Benefit

The Trustees confirm that they have complied with the duty in section 17(5) of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit, 'Charities and Public Benefit'.

The main activities undertaken for the public benefit are as follows:

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ALPHABETTI THEATRE TRUSTEES’ REPORT 11 MONTHS ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT (Continued)

Recruitment & Appointment of Trustees

New Trustees are identified and appointed on the recommendation of the existing Trustees.

Operation of the Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees typically meets four times per year and, additionally, holds an Annual General Meeting.

Trustee Induction & Training

In the first year of appointment an induction and training year is provided, covering both the distinctiveness of the organisation, as well as the duties and responsibilities of acting as a charity Trustee.

Risk Management

The Trustees of the charity regularly review the major governance, operational and financial risks which the charity faces as part of its annual business planning process and confirm that systems have been established to mitigate these risks.

Alphabetti Theatre has a risk management strategy in place, which comprises:

The Trustees are satisfied that appropriate financial systems and controls are in place.

The Trustees consider the key risks facing the charity at this time to be the financial risks arising if the organisation is unable to attract sufficient income to realise its planned projects to the scale and quality to which the organisation aspires.

The Trustees have managed the potential impact of these risks by ensuring that:

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ALPHABETTI THEATRE TRUSTEES’ REPORT 11 MONTHS ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

Summary of the main achievements of the charity during the year

Below are just a few of the highlights of the past 12 months:

This has all been made possible by the incredibly hard-working small team who all play an integral role in the organisation. A special thanks to the Alphabetti Theatre Board of Trustees who continue to guide the theatre from strength-to-strength, supporting all around it. A final thanks to all of the funders, artists, participants and audience members who invested time, money and emotion to make something special.

Below are the 12 main productions of the year and one festival - all ran for a minimum of two weeks.

Faun By Vinnie Heaven , directed by Debbie Hannan, performed by Aitch Wylie, Afton Moran & Nyah Randon. Cardboard Citizens, Alphabetti Theatre and Theatre503 co-production and a World premiere. (28th March - 15th April 2023) - A celebration of queer community, full of heart, youth and pan pipes. A joyful show that explores being trans and sofa surfing.

“ A tender and scintillating work of empathy ” Theatre Weekly ★★★★★

“ Joyous ” The Stage ★★★★ “ Charming and funny story that will fill you with joy and pure happiness ” Everything Theatre ★★★★

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ALPHABETTI THEATRE TRUSTEES’ REPORT 11 MONTHS ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Summary of the main achievements of the charity during the year (Cont.)

Soapbox Racer by Ben Schwarz directed by Rosie Bowden, performed by Harrison RowleyLynn. Alphabetti Theatre production and a North East premiere. (25th April - 13th May 2023). Soapbox Racer is the story of a teenage girl building a soapbox car in a wild attempt to win back her ex, accidentally reconnecting with her estranged Dad in the process, and finding her inner daredevil.

In Newcastle

The Lies by Degna Stone directed by Matt Jamie, performed by Luca Rutherford & Degna Stone. Alphabetti Theatre & Degna Stone co-production and a World Premiere. (23rd May - 10th June 2023) - an incredibly beautiful poetic two-hander looking at the lies and half-truths we tell ourselves from the Tooth Fairy to politics.

In Newcastle

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ALPHABETTI THEATRE TRUSTEES’ REPORT 11 MONTHS ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Summary of the main achievements of the charity during the year (Cont.)

Chop, Dissolve, Burn By Lissette Auton & Richard Boggie directed by Paul James, performed by Steven George & Helen Fox. WANCs & Alphabetti co-production and a World premiere. (20th June - 8th July 2023) - a comedy that pokes fun at society’s attitudes towards disability, whilst exposing the truth about the impacts of inequality on disabled people’s lives. Created by an all-disabled creative team.

In Newcastle

2023 Newcastle Fringe Festival produced by Newcastle Fringe Festival Ltd & Alphabetti Theatre. (18th - 29th July 2023). 5 venues, 119 artists, 73 Individual Shows, 1,827 tickets sold

Feedback from the artists:

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TRUSTEES’ REPORT 11 MONTHS ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

ALPHABETTI THEATRE

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Summary of the main achievements of the charity during the year (Cont.)

Raven by Danielle Slade directed by Stan Hodgson, performed by Maya Torres, Calum Howard & Ruth Mary Johnson. An Alphabetti Theatre co-production and a World premiere. (15th August - 2nd Sept 2023). A beautiful and mischievous show focused on children’s mental health for children and their adults, filled with live music, puppetry, and a talking gargoyle..

“ Raven is wild entertainment with a huge heart. Pure joy from start to finish .” Theatre & Tonic.★★★★★

" At the very beginning of this play I really wasn’t sure I was going to enjoy the performance, however within a few minutes I was hooked! As the story unfolds, the play works on several levels, appealing to different sections of the audience ." Fairy Powered Reviews. ★★★★

“… joyous celebration of discovery, bravery and understanding your true self .”

In Newcastle

Alphabetti Soup 10 year celebration Written by Ali Pritchard & Wilf Stone . Performed by Wilf Stone. (15th Aug - 2nd Sept). A cabaret night celebrating the past ten years of Alphabetti Theatre. Host and co-writer Wilf Stone told the tale of the theatre, interspersed with three different guest artists each night who have helped put us on the map in total 54 different artists.

“ A Delicious mix of theatre, music and comedy .” NARC

“ I found the story of the theatre hugely interesting, entertaining and helpful.” A Blind Catch in the Sun

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ALPHABETTI THEATRE TRUSTEES’ REPORT 11 MONTHS ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Summary of the main achievements of the charity during the year (Cont.)

Mr Punch by Steve Byron developed in collaboration with Joana Geronimo directed by Paula Penman, performed by Steve Byron & Joana Geronimo. Alphabetti Theatre in association with The Worriers present a World premiere. (12th - 30th September 2023). Mr Punch tells the story of Norman, a solitary and now lonely figure of fun, with a dependence for drink and a long life of self-destruction and small mindedness. Norman has returned from a funeral carrying his recent departed father’s life in a suitcase. A father whom he blames for his actions, situations and what the world might call a ‘wasted life’. When a faraway family move in next door – Norman’s attitudes, pity-party and beliefs may have to change. But there’s no show without Punch. Told against the backdrop of 21st century Britain, with the use of puppetry and extremely dark humour.

" Both actors do a wonderful job bringing these real world characters to life, with great emotion and darkly comic beats, that break up the tension so well ." Theatre & Tonic ★★★★

" These are two striking personalities both beautifully acted and who come together beautifully, and realistically, in the depths of need ." A Blind Catch in the Sun

" There is a devastating message in the telling, a wonderful finding of minds and you will laugh, cry and maybe even challenge yourself as you see the performers do the same throughout this carefully constructed, and beautifully crafted play ."

" It is hard to fault its ultimately uplifting message – that in finding community, there is hope for us all ." The Stage

In Newcastle

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ALPHABETTI THEATRE TRUSTEES’ REPORT 11 MONTHS ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Summary of the main achievements of the charity during the year (Cont.)

FLIP! By Racheal Ofori directed by Emily Aboud, performed by Leah St Luce & Jadesola Odunjo. Fuel, Alphabetti Theatre and Soho Theatre co-production and a World premiere. (10th October - 28th October 2023). A sharp satire that asks how we can live our best authentic lives in a world of algorithms intent on proving just how disposable we all are…

“ In Racheal Ofori’s bright new play, Leah St Luce and Jadesola Odunjo delight as wannabe influencers whose friendship is tested by the temptations of fame and fortune ” The Guardian ★★★★

“ Sharply written social-media satire ” The Stage ★★★★

“ Flip is a fiercely relevant journey into the dark depths of social media, handled with sharp wit and careful consideration ” Theatre & Tonic

Angela by Charlotte Small directed by Ruth Mary Johnson, performed by Rebecca Glendenning-Laycock. Alphabetti Theatre production and a World premiere. (7th November - 25th November 2023). A hilarious, heart wrenching yet uplifting tale of talking eggcups, a beatboxing Spiderman, and finding your power when you feel powerless. The play originated from a short that won November 2022 Alphabetti’s Response Writing competition

“ Delightfully dark solo comedy with killer lines ” The Stage ★★★★

“ a comedy triumph of the side-splitting proportions. A true joy from start to finish .” Theatre & Tonic ★★★★★

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ALPHABETTI THEATRE TRUSTEES’ REPORT 11 MONTHS ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Summary of the main achievements of the charity during the year (Cont.)

Puddle written & directed by Ali Pritchard, developed in collaboration with pupils from Hotspur Primary, Hawthorn Primary & West Jesmond Primary , performed by Paula Penman & Calum Howard. Alphabetti Theatre production and World premiere. (6th December 23- 6th January 2024). Puddle was co-created by an award-winning creative team and 130 children (who’ve collaborated in the writing, designing, building of set and writing / recording of the music for the production) from Hotspur Primary School, Hawthorn Primary School and West Jesmond Primary, all based in Newcastle, out of the children involved 69.7% receive Pupil Premium which is well above the national average.

Puddle follows Heather’s mission to fix the world’s fast-accumulating faults, while learning to embrace her childish impulses without guilt. At its core, it is a tale about the ecosystem we share, and the many ways we interact with and impact it. Told through music, magic and a lot of whimsy!

“ It is relentless fun. I enjoyed how it moves forward all the time and maybe just like childhood does so leaving some things unexplained but somehow open, and that’s fine. There are things for adults (or is that older children) to take from it too, and fun, did I say that. At its best it has a zany freedom, there as I look back on it too .” A Blind Catch in The Sun

Disco Pigs by Enda Walsh directed by Ali Pritchard, performed by Amy McAllister & Ben Gettins. Alphabetti Theatre production and a North East Premiere. (20th February - 9th March 2024). A furious, funny and violent dash through a friendship that may be too close to survive. Exploring the story of two Irish disaffected teenagers - hypnotic and poetic.

“ A stylistic piece that packs a dark punch .” Theatre & Tonic ★★★★

“ Abrasive, poetic two-hander, Disco Pigs is a bullet-train ride of extremes .” Broadway World

“ Pritchard never lets the pace sag, while giving the emotional beats time to land. Whilst Gettins and McAllister bring a suitably edgy chemistry to their roles .” The Stage

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ALPHABETTI THEATRE TRUSTEES’ REPORT 11 MONTHS ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Summary of the main achievements of the charity during the year (Cont.)

Imaginary Friends written & performed by Daniel Bye . Daniel Bye, Arc Stockton & Alphabetti co-production and a World premiere. (19th March – 6th April 2024). Daniel Bye’s first solo show for seven years - A wild hallucinatory ride through the looking glass of twenty-first century culture. It tells the story of a floundering TV comic who after a tragic event, find comfort in his imaginary friends. Not the nice sort, like you had when you were a kid. These are terrible people, and he knows it.

“ This solo show from Daniel Bye is a surreal and often very funny take on deeply unfunny subjects ” The Stage.

“ a rollercoaster of a show that swings from the poignant to the peculiar ” Theatre & Tonic

“ A unique storytelling adventure that asks whether, in the end, people aren’t quite as bad as they seem .”

In Newcastle

Financial Review

The financial result for the year is a surplus on Unrestricted Funds of £55,882 (2023: deficit of £137,770). As a result, the charity’s Unrestricted Funds at 31 March 2024 are £84,314.

Reserves Policy

As Trustees, we have reviewed the charity's needs for reserves in line with the guidance issued by the Charity Commission.

The Trustees aim to retain sufficient Unrestricted Reserves to cover all known liabilities and to provide for a degree of contingency to complete the charity’s existing operations in an orderly manner in the event of an unforeseen reduction in income, which has been quantified as a total requirement of £120,000. This figure is to cover which includes employee notice periods, redundancy entitlements, potential production cancellation or postponement costs, rent notice period and utilities / other contract notice periods.

In addition, the Trustees now aim to retain a further allowance of £30,000 to enable Alphabetti to re-invest in programme with our new Artistic Director in post.

This means a total requirement of approximately £150,000.

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ALPHABETTI THEATRE TRUSTEES’ REPORT 11 MONTHS ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Summary of the main achievements of the charity during the year (Cont.)

Reserves Policy (Cont.)

The statement of financial activities shows total unrestricted funds of £84,314 at 31 March 2024. Free unrestricted reserves, defined as unrestricted funds, less any designated funds and the value of Tangible Fixed Assets, are £78,815.

The charity intends, through its budgeting processes to create the required level of Reserves with 3 years.

This policy is reviewed by the Trustees on a quarterly basis, whilst we are still in the state of crisis and, once we are fully recovered, it will revert back to annually as part of the charity’s budgeting processes.

PLANS FOR FUTURE PERIODS

At time of writing this report (June 2024), Alphabetti Theatre is thrilled to announce the appointment of Edward Cole as its new Artistic/Executive Director, succeeding the theatre's founder, Ali Pritchard. This significant leadership transition marks an exciting new chapter in Alphabetti’s story.

Ed brings a wealth of experience to Alphabetti. After graduating from the University of Hull with a degree in Drama and studying for a Masters at Drama Centre London, he co-founded Middle Child Theatre, now one of the UK’s foremost new writing theatre companies. Since then, he has worked with numerous theatrical institutions across the country as a director, producer, actor and theatre maker.

Ed grew up in County Durham, and throughout his career has developed an intimate knowledge of the performing arts sector in the North East. He is passionate about theatre, performance and the local region, and he is ideally positioned to maintain and develop Alphabetti’s already prestigious reputation for supporting emerging artists, programming bold new work, and acting as a trailblazer for progression and accessibility in the arts.

Ali Pritchard, the outgoing Artistic/Executive Director and founder, shared his thoughts on this transition: "Founding Alphabetti Theatre and serving as its Artistic/Executive Director has been an incredible journey. I am immensely proud of what we've achieved together – creating a space where creativity thrives, and diverse voices are heard. Ed's vision, passion, and commitment to the arts make him the perfect leader to carry forward Alphabetti's legacy. I am confident that under Ed's direction, the theatre will continue to grow and inspire our community in new and exciting ways.”

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ALPHABETTI THEATRE TRUSTEES’ REPORT 11 MONTHS ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

PLANS FOR FUTURE PERIODS (CONTINUED)

Ed expressed his enthusiasm for joining Alphabetti Theatre: "Stepping into the role of Artistic/Executive Director at Alphabetti Theatre is the honour of a lifetime. This theatre has a unique and vibrant spirit, and I can’t pay enough tribute to Ali and the tireless work he has put in over the years to develop it into the essential facility it is today. The talent and dedication of the team at Alphabetti is humbling, and it will be a privilege to build on the strong foundations already in place while exploring new horizons. I am particularly looking forward to engaging with our artists and audiences - understanding what the venue means to them - and working together to ensure Alphabetti Theatre continues to be a beacon of creativity, development, inclusivity and accessibility for Newcastle and the North East.”

Christina Dawson from the Alphabetti Board of Trustees, added her support for the new appointment: “This is a very exciting time for Alphabetti. Ed is a vibrant and passionate cultural leader and I’m really looking forward to seeing what this new relationship looks like. Ed has got so much to offer our community. Welcome, Ed!”

Ali will remain with Alphabetti Theatre until November 2024, after which he will embark on a freelance career. His final season at Alphabetti, “Joyful Punk”, will begin in August 2024 and run until the end of the year. Ali leaves us having just been presented to King Charles at a Buckingham Palace Garden Party celebrating The Creative Industries in May 2024, in recognition of Ali’s services to grassroots arts and culture through Alphabetti Theatre.

Under Ed’s guidance, Alphabetti Theatre is now looking to develop our economic resilience after another turbulent financial year.

We’re extremely aware that artists, audiences and participants are struggling. We look to the future to continue to help artists survive financially, advocating to use creativity to tell the stories that need to be heard in interesting and entertaining ways, ensuring that we continue to support more artists, participants, audiences, and our local community each year.

We will do this through four key targets – to:

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ALPHABETTI THEATRE TRUSTEES’ REPORT 11 MONTHS ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE TRUSTEES

The Trustees shall manage the business of the Charity and may exercise all the powers of the Charity unless restricted by the Charities Act or the constitution of the Charity.

The Trustees are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements for each financial year which show a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity as at the balance sheet date and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including income and expenditure, for the financial year.

In preparation of the financial statements the Trustees should follow best practice and:

  1. Select suitable accounting policies and apply them.

  2. Make judgements and exercises that are reasonable and prudent.

  3. Prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to assume that the charity will continue on that basis.

The Trustees are responsible for maintaining proper accounting records, which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity.

The Trustees are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

This report has been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities (issued in March 2005 by the Charities Commission England and Wales).

Signed on behalf of the Board of Trustees

Jon Richard Farthing, Trustee

07 August 2024

14

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS ON THE UNAUDITED ACCOUNTS OF ALPHABETTI THEATRE FOR THE 11 MONTHS ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

I hereby report to the Trustees/Members of Alphabetti Theatre (Charity Registration Number 1165934) on the accounts for the period ended 31 March 2024 set out on pages 16 to 27.

Responsibilities and Basis of Report

As the charity’s trustees (and also its directors for the purposes of company law), you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (‘the 2006 Act’).

Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity’s accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the 2011 Act’). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent Examiner’s Statement

Since the Company’s gross income exceeded £250,000, your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountant in England and Wales, which is one of the listed bodies.

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  3. the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair view’ which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or

  4. the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods or principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities (applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102)).

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Pete O’Hara, FCA, Chartered Accountant Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales

26 La Sagesse, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 3AF

31 July 2024

15

ALPHABETTI THEATRE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES 11 MONTHS TO 31 MARCH 2024

Note
Income
Income from Investments
2
Income from Grants, Donations &
Legacies
3
Income from Charitable Activities
4
Other Income
5
Total Income
Expenditure
Expenditure on Raising Funds
6
Expenditure on Charitable Activities
7
Total Expenditure
Net Income/(Expenditure)
8
Balance brought forward
Balance carried forward		 Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Total
2024
Total
2023
£
£
£
£
307
-
307
83
93,930
119,362
213,292
318,178
85,965
-
85,965
86,479
93,207
-
93,207
105,458
273,409
119,362
392,771
510,198
-
-
-
1,750
217,527
162,822
380,349
627,763
217,527
162,822
380,349
629,513
55,882
(43,460)
12,422
(119,315)
28,432
57,205
85,637
204,952
£84,314
£13,745
£98,059
£85,637

The notes on pages 18 to 27 form part of the financial statements.

There are no recognised gains and losses during the year other than as shown above.

All the activities for the year are continuing activities.

16

ALPHABETTI THEATRE

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION/BALANCE SHEET AT 31 MARCH 2024

Notes
Fixed Assets
Tangible Fixed Assets
12
Investments
13
Current Assets
Debtors
14
Cash at Bank and In Hand
Creditors:
Amounts Falling Due Within 1 Year
15
Net Current Assets
Total Net Assets
Represented By:
Unrestricted Funds
16, 17
Restricted Funds
16, 17		 2024
2023
£
£
5,498
9,561
1
1
5,499
9,562
106,952
122,614
4,410
6,707
111,362
129,321
(18,802)
(53,246)
92,560
76,075
£98,059
£85,637
84,314
28,432
13,745
57,205
£98,059
£85,637

The notes on pages 18 to 27 form part of the financial statements.

The financial statements were approved by the Trustees, and authorized for issue, on 31 July 2024 and signed on their behalf by:

Jon Richard Farthing, Trustee

07 August 2024

17

ALPHABETTI THEATRE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS AT 31 MARCH 2024

1. Accounting Policies

Basis of Accounting

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2015) - (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), and the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).

Alphabetti Theatre meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy.

Income

All income is included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) when there is entitlement, certainty of receipt and the amount can be measured with sufficient reliability.

Such income is only deferred when the donor or funder has specified that the grant or donation can only be used in future accounting periods or where the donor or funder has imposed conditions which must be met before the charity has unconditional entitlement.

Investment income, including interest on funds held on deposit, is recognised on a receivable basis.

Expenditure

All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and is recognised when a liability is incurred.

Irrecoverable VAT

All resources expended are classified under activity headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Irrecoverable VAT is charged against the category of resources expended for which it was incurred.

Taxation

Alphabetti Theatre meets the definition required of a charitable company for UK Corporation Tax purposes. Consequently, the company is potentially exempt from taxation in respect of income or capital gains to the extent that such income or gains are applied exclusively for charitable purposes.

18

ALPHABETTI THEATRE

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS AT 31 MARCH 2024

1. Accounting Policies (Continued)

Pensions

Alphabetti Theatre contributes to a defined contribution pension scheme. Further details can be found in Note 9.

For the defined contribution scheme, the amount charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in respect of pension costs is the contributions payable in the year. Differences between contributions payable in the year and contributions actually paid are shown as either accruals or prepayments in the Balance Sheet.

Tangible Fixed Assets and Depreciation

Depreciation is provided on any fixed assets at rates calculated to write off the assets over their remaining useful lives as follows:

Theatre & Bar Equipment - 20% per annum straight line IT & Office Equipment - 33% per annum straight line

A full year’s depreciation charge is applied in the year of acquisition and no charge is made in the year of disposal.

Financial Instruments

The charity only has financial assets and liabilities of a kind which qualify as basic financial instruments. Such instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value.

Fund Accounting

General Funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the charity.

Designated Funds comprise unrestricted funds set aside by the Trustees for a specific purpose.

Restricted Funds reflect income received which a funder or donor requires must be spent on a particular purpose or where funds have been raised for a specific purpose. Such income and associated expenditure is shown as Restricted in the Statement of Financial Activities, whilst any unspent balances at the year-end are carried forward as Restricted Funds.

Going Concern

There are no material uncertainties about the charity's ability to continue.

Judgements and Key Sources of Estimation Uncertainty

The preparation of the financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported. These estimates and judgements are continually reviewed and are based on experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

There are no significant judgements or estimation uncertainty included within the financial statements.

19

ALPHABETTI THEATRE

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS AT 31 MARCH 2024

2. Income from Investments
Unrestricted Restricted 2024 2023
Funds Funds
£ £ £ £
Interest Receivable 307 - 307 83
£307 £- £307 £83
The 2023 total of £83 was wholly attributable to Unrestricted Funds.
3. Income – Grants, Donations & Legacies
Unrestricted Restricted 2024 2023
Funds Funds
£ £ £ £
Grant Income
1989 Willan Charitable Trust - 10,000 10,000 -
Arts Council England (ACE) - Emergency - - - 98,000
Fund
ACE – Brolly Season - 90,000 90,000 -
ACE via Allison Davies – Tiny Fragments - - - 39,480
of Beautiful Light
ACE via Hazel Monaghan – This Show Is - - - 18,802
Rubbish
ACE via Kay Greyson – Brotherhood - - - 25,620
ACE via Kemi-Bo Jacobs – All White - - - 15,000
Everything But Me
ACE via Richard Boggie – Chop Dissolve - - - 36,000
Burn
ACE via Rosie Bowden – Soapbox Racer - - - 23,215
Catherine Cookson Foundation - - - 5,000
Collier Charitable Trust 2,000 - 2,000 -
Esmee Fairbairn Foundation 30,000 - 30,000 -
Garfield Weston Foundation 25,000 - 25,000 -
Newcastle CC – Open Call - 15,816 15,816 -
Newcastle CC – Warm Hub - 1,750 1,750 -
Newcastle Cultural Investment Fund - - - 18,000
Street Games UK - 1,796 1,796 -
Donations
Alphabetti Trading Limited 28,636 - 28,636 20,930
General Donations 8,294 - 8,294 18,131
£93,930 £119,362 £213,292 £318,178

Of the 2023 total of £318,178, £137,061 is attributable to Unrestricted Funds and £181,117 to Restricted Funds.

20

ALPHABETTI THEATRE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS AT 31 MARCH 2024

4. Income from Charitable Activities

Venue Hire & Rental Income
Workshops, Lectures & Consultancy
Project Contributions
Other Earned Income
Box Office Income		 Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
31,983
-
31,983
10,869
-
-
-
9,660
-
-
-
9,950
52
-
52
-
53,930
-
53,930
56,000
£85,965
£-
£85,965
£86,479

The 2023 total of £86,479 is wholly attributable to Unrestricted Funds.

5. Other Income

Theatre Tax Relief Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
93,207
-
93,207
105,458
£93,207
£-
£93,207
£105,458

The 2023 total of £105,458 is wholly attributable to Unrestricted Funds.

6. Expenditure on Raising Funds

Fundraising Consultancy Fees Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
-
-
-
1,750
£-
£-
£-
£1,750

The 2023 total of £1,750 is wholly attributable to Unrestricted Funds.

21

ALPHABETTI THEATRE

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS AT 31 MARCH 2024

7. Expenditure on Charitable Activities

Direct Project Costs
Salaries & On Costs
Alphabetti Production Costs
Artists’ Fees
Theatre Tax Relief Splits
Technical Costs
Marketing & Communication Costs
Support Costs
Premises Costs
Overheads & Administration Costs
Depreciation
Governance Costs
Independent Examination Fees
Legal & Professional
Other Accountancy Fees
Payroll Processing Costs		 Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
172,396
12,380
184,776
192,366
-
120,421
120,421
222,643
-
18,340
18,340
32,902
6,590
-
6,590
50,264
-
1,864
1,864
3,000
-
8,067
8,067
28,486
15,558
1,750
17,308
70,579
15,761
-
15,761
19,146
5,371
-
5,371
5,073
900
-
900
900
13
-
13
-
360
-
360
600
578
-
578
1,804
£217,527
£162,822
£380,349
£627,763

Of the 2023 total of £627,763, £465,101 is attributable to Unrestricted Funds and £162,662 to Restricted Funds.

8. Staff Costs/Trustees’ Remuneration


Gross Salary Costs
Social Security Costs
Employer’s Pension Contributions		 Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
175,565
-
175,565
182,757
6,505
-
6,505
7,047
2,706
-
2,706
2,562
£184,776
£-
£184,776
£192,366

The 2023 total of £192,366 is wholly attributable to Unrestricted Funds.

The average number of staff employed in the year on Artistic Direction and Venue Management was 8 (2023: 8)

22

ALPHABETTI THEATRE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS AT 31 MARCH 2024

8. Staff Costs/Trustees’ Remuneration (Cont.)

No staff received remuneration in excess of £60,000 in the year (2023: None).

No remuneration was paid to or waived by Trustees/Directors in the year (2023: £Nil).

Trustees are able to claim re-imbursement at cost for any out-of-pocket expenses they incur in the course of their Trustee duties, but no such costs were incurred/claimed in the year (2023: £Nil).

9. Pension Scheme

Pension benefits are provided through a Group Personal Pension Scheme, which is a defined contribution scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the company in a separately administered fund. In the year to 31 March 2024, Alphabetti Theatre made an employer's contribution of 3% of pensionable pay, provided that the employee makes a minimum contribution of 5%.

These amounts are paid over to the scheme on a monthly basis.

Contributions totalling £683 were outstanding at 31 March 2024 (2023: £644).

10. Net Income/(Expenditure)

2024 2023
Net Income/(Expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting): £ £
Depreciation 5,371 5,073
Independent Examiner’s Fees 900 900

11. Taxation

Alphabetti Theatre is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation and, therefore, is not liable to income tax or corporation tax on income or gains derived from its activities as they fall within the exemptions available.

23

ALPHABETTI THEATRE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS AT 31 MARCH 2024

12. Fixed Assets

Cost
At 1 May 2023
Additions in year
At 31 March 2024
Accumulated Depreciation
At 1 May 2023
Charge for year
At 31 March 2024
Net Book Value
At 31 March 2024
At 1 May 2023
13.
Investments
Investment in trading subsidiary – Alphabetti Trading Limited		 Theatre, IT &
Office
Equipment
£
Total
Fixed
Assets
£
27,278
27,278
1,308
1,308
28,586
28,586
17,717
17,717
5,371
5,371
23,088
23,088
£5,498
£5,498
£9,561
£9,561
2024
£
2023
£
1
1
£1
£1

Alphabetti Theatre owns 100% of the share capital of Alphabetti Trading Limited (Company Number 11214355), which is responsible for bar and catering operations.

Alphabetti Trading Limited will typically donate some or all of its profits to Alphabetti Theatre.

14. Debtors

Accrued Income – Theatre Tax Relief
Accrued Income - Other
Prepayments		 2024
2023
£
£
93,207
105,458
13,745
17,156
-
-
£106,952
£122,614

All sums are due within 1 year.

24

ALPHABETTI THEATRE

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS AT 31 MARCH 2024

15. Creditors - Amounts Falling Due Within One Year

reditors - Amounts Falling Due Within One Year
Trade Creditors
Other Taxes & Social Security Costs
Other Creditors
Intercompany Loan – Alphabetti Trading
Accruals		 2024
2023
£
£
-
11,480
5,835
1,486
683
644
3,880
5,912
8,404
33,724
£18,802
£53,246

16. Analysis of Net Assets between Funds

Unrestricted Unrestricted Restricted 2024 2023
Funds Funds
£ £ £ £
Fixed Assets 5,498 - 5,498 9,561
Investments 1 - 1 1
Debtors 93,207 13,745 106,952 122,614
Cash at Bank and In Hand 4,410 - 4,410 6,707
Creditors – Due Within 1 Year (18,802) - (18,802) (53,246)
£84,314 £13,745 £98,059 £85,637
17. Analysis of Charitable Funds
At 1 May
Income for		 Expended At 31
2023
Period		 in Period March 2024
£
£		 £ £
Unrestricted General Fund 28,432
273,409		 (217,527) 84,314
Movement on Restricted Funds
1989 Willan Charitable Trust -
10,000		 (10,000) -
ACE – Brolly Season -
90,000		 (81,000) 9,000
ACE via Richard Boggie – Chop 33,965
-		 (33,965) -
Dissolve Burn
ACE via Rosie Bowden – Soapbox 18,240
-		 (18,240) -
Racer
Catherine Cookson Trust 5,000
-		 (5,000) -
Newcastle CC – Open Call -
15,816		 (11,071) 4,745
Newcastle CC – Warm Hub -
1,750		 (1,750) -
Street Games UK -
1,796		 (1,796) -
Total Restricted Funds 57,205
119,362		 (162,822) 13,745
Total Funds £85,637
£392,771		 £(380,349) £98,059

25

ALPHABETTI THEATRE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS AT 31 MARCH 2024

17. Analysis of Charitable Funds (Cont.)

Name of Restricted Fund

Description, Nature & Purpose of the Restricted Fund

1989 Willan Charitable Trust

To enable disadvantaged people in the West End of Newcastle to have access to theatre

ACE – Brolly Season

Towards the cost of Brolly Season

ACE via Richard Boggie – Chop Towards the cost of Chop Dissolve Burn Dissolve Burn

ACE via Rosie Bowden – Soapbox Racer

Towards the cost of Soapbox Racer

Catherine Cookson Trust

Towards the cost of capital development including triple-glazed windows

Newcastle CC – Open Call

Towards the cost of the Dark Arts of How To Get Programmed, Fundraising, Community & Marketing

Newcastle CC – Warm Hub Towards the costs of providing a Warm Hub facility Street Games UK Towards the costs of Newcastle’s Best Ever Holiday Activity and Food Programme 2023

18. Financial Commitments

No material financial commitments have been made in respect of future financial years.

26

ALPHABETTI THEATRE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS AT 31 MARCH 2024

19. Related Parties

Alphabetti Theatre has identified the following relationship which should be disclosed as a related party:

Party: Alphabetti Trading Limited Relationship: 100% Owned Subsidiary

Nature of Transactions in the year: Donation of subsidiary profits

Nature of Transactions in the year: Costs paid by charity on behalf of subsidiary

There were no other transactions in the year with related parties, such as are required to be disclosed under the Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities (Effective April 2008) (2023: None).

27