WICKED Announces Partnership With New UK Anti-Bullying Charity The Ben Cohen Standup Foundation

WICKED, the award-winning hit musical that tells the untold story of the Witches of Oz, is pleased to announce its partnership with anti-bullying charity The Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation, which launched in the UK last night (Thursday 10 May).

Established by England Rugby World Cup champion, Ben Cohen MBE, The Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation is the world’s first foundation dedicated to raising awareness of the long-term, damaging effects of bullying, and funding those doing real-world work to stop it.

Executive Producer Michael McCabe said in a statement: "Through its story of a young girl who is demonised because of her looks, Wicked has encouraged audiences across the world to draw inspiration from her choice to standup for what she believes. We are immensely proud of our anti-bullying work here in London, and we now look forward to making even more of a difference by partnering with Ben Cohen's remarkable new charity”

Ben Cohen MBE, founder of The Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation, commented: “We are thrilled to launch the Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation in the UK and extremely grateful for the support of WICKED. Getting the message out about bullying and its long-term negative effects could not be done without the support and collaborative efforts of our partners. Post-launch, our work will not only focus on raising- awareness of the issue but also focus on fundraising to support organisations doing real-world work to eradicate bullying.”

Lynne Featherstone, Equalities Minister, further commented: “I’m delighted to be supporting the launch of the Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation. Government is taking action against bullying by strengthening teachers’ powers and working closely with schools. We have also recognised the power of sport as an agent for change, and Ben has been an invaluable ambassador for our Charter for Action, tackling homophobia and transphobia in sport. Government cannot make a difference alone. When sporting heroes like Ben speak out on these issues it inspires and motivates others to take action and replaces fear with confidence and hope.”

The long-running musical backed the charity's UK launch with a pre-show reception at its official hotel partner, the Rubens at the Palace.

WICKED spearheads and supports a range of good causes born out of the themes of the award-winning musical. Discover more at: www.WickedForGood.co.uk  

Official UK website and video trailer: www.WickedTheMusical.co.uk

Apollo Victoria Theatre, Wilton Road, London, SW1V 1LG. The theatre is 1 minute from London Victoria Mainline and Underground Stations. 5 minute walk from Victoria Coach Station

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