Fundraising auction lots range from Take That ....

saratiddyWed 26/03/08 17:46

Fundraising auction lots range from Take That to Tate Modern

Stonewall has launched its 2008 silent auction. All proceeds will go toward funding the gay equality organisation's charitable work, including the Education for All campaign, which aims to stamp out homophobic bullying in schools.

Up for grabs is an array of rare and unusual prizes, including a chance to be a VIP guest to the stars of Strictly Come Dancing, an afternoon in the studio with BBC Radio 2's Paul Gambacinni and snowboarding lessons for four with the UK's number one snowboarder, Jo Chastney.

Other lots include the chance to be named as a character in the new novel by acclaimed crime writer, Val McDermid and a framed, signed copy of k.d.lang's new album Watershed, along with a complete set of her entire back catalogue.

There is also a host of once-in-a-liftime experiences up for auction.

These include tickets for four to the opening of the new Take That musical Never Forget, a privately-escorted tour of the Tate Modern with a curator, a chance to listen to principal conductor of the London Symphony Orchestra, Valery Gergiev, conduct Mahler, or a day for two on an exclusive boat at the Eurogay Sailing Cup.

Stonewall Events Manager Michaela Greene said:

"These prizes would make the perfect gift for someone you want to really treat for a special occasion.

"The unique experiences are available to a number of guests, so why not get together with your mates and split your bid between you?

"A great way to get the prize for less, but still enjoy the fantastic experience."

The prizes will be auctioned at the Stonewall annual Equality Dinner next month but anyone can bid on the prizes.

You can view the entire list of prizes and bid by either by
clicking www.stonewall.org.uk/events/2126.asp or calling Michaela on 020 7593 1874.

The auction will be open until midday on Thursday 3rd April and the winning bids will be announced on Friday 4th April.

Article: www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-7230.html

saratiddyWed 26/03/08 17:49

Listed below are the exclusive silent auction prizes on offer this year. Deadline for entry is 12pm noon, 3rd April, and winners will be announced the day after the Dinner (4th April 2008).

‘Strictly Come Dancing' has been one of the most successful TV shows of all time. Bid for the chance for you and a friend to be VIP guests for the night. You'll meet the stars and get to be part of the audience for a live recording of the show.

Bid for a lesson for four people with Jo Chastney, the UK's number one snowboarder and nominee at last year's Stonewall Awards. Jo will also give you one of her own personal snowboards, a Forum Star, which is yours to keep.

Spend an evening with two friends watching the live broadcast of Paul's fantastic Radio 2 show and then afterwards join him for a three course meal with wine at Carluccio's restaurant.

A fantastic opportunity for two people to spend the day on an exclusive boat at the Eurogay Sailing Cup on 6th September with tickets to the evening reception party.

Val McDermid, writer and creater of the hugely successful TV series ‘Wire in the Blood' is giving you the chance to become one of the characters in her new novel. Perhaps you'll end up as a bloody corpse with just a toe tag as your only means of identification!

Listen to principal conductor of the London Symphony Orchestra, Valery Gergiev, conduct Mahler from the best seats in the house. You and a friend will also have the chance to meet the chairman of the LSO, who is a member of the orchestra.

Take a private tour for four around the Tate Modern led by your own curator. To complete the experience you and your friends will lunch at the Tate Modern restaurant and drink in the panoramic views over the Thames.

Stewart's work is innovative, individual and perfect for displaying in any environment. This particular painting was especially commissioned for Stonewall and offers you the chance to support both the charity and this exciting up-and-coming artist.

Bursting with classic Take That hits, ‘Never Forget' is set to take the West End by storm when it arrives at London's Savoy Theatre, 22nd May. The winner and three guests will enjoy VIP treatment at the spectacular gala opening and then rub shoulders with the stars at the post show party.

World renowned singer and songwriter k. d. lang has kindly donated a framed signed copy of her fantastic new album, ‘Watershed' as well as a complete set of her back catalogue.

From: www.stonewall.org.uk/events/2126.asp