Free Range began in 2012 with the purpose of creating a gift economy for culture and connecting different creative communities. 13 years later and we’ve presented 286 free-entry events, run 80 workshops and 20 open stage events and grown a strong regional community of artists and audience members who care about adventurous culture.

But this year we didn’t receive funding.

We have about 20 amazing people who donate each month and this has helped us to survive this year but, sadly, it is not enough. We aim to pay artists and staff a fair wage and we cannot do this without your help. Investing in your local cultural ecosystem is a powerful gift with impacts that ripple out in unpredictable ways. I hope that the video above, the quotes below and the gallery of photos will remind you of what we do and why it is worth keeping alive through your donation.

Thank you,

Sam Bailey

‘a truly pioneering, imaginative and courageous project that has collaboration at its heart.’

FR has, frankly, resuscitated my belief in the possibility of creating no-bullshit great art for everybody to access and it walks the walk. World class events for free in an intimate and welcoming setting. Commitment to experimentation. Resistance to formulas or platitudes. Bringing everyone along.

‘Performing at Free Range was such a pleasure. The energy, adventurous ethos, and openness of the team, paired with such an engaged and curious audience, make it a truly special platform for sharing work.’

‘As an audience member and artist, Free Range has kept me sane.’

‘Free Range in Canterbury is a unique and important venture … it has become a hub for contemporary and experimental music, poetry and film, along with performance art and dance. Free Range is the only place in the south east that gives a voice to such diverse experimentation and risk taking.’

‘Really, really loved it last night. Filled with depth, truth and humour.’

‘Working with Free Range on Sunday offered me a unique experience of creative collaboration I am sure no-one present will ever forget … Both performances, created with trust and sensitivity, manifested a sense of openness amongst us all that restored my belief in what really matters.’