Get Ben to Patrick's in Melbourne!

$170 of $60,000 goal

Given by 5 generous donors in 4 days

Help 16-year-old Ben follow his dreams and take up his hard-earned, audition-only place at Patrick School of the Arts in Melbourne in 2027.

Christchurch, Canterbury

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At just 16, Christchurch performer Ben Cumberpatch has been offered an extraordinary opportunity: a place in the 2027 Arts High programme at Patrick School of the Arts in Melbourne.

Entry is strictly by audition, with students selected for their “talent and future potential”, and only 13 places were offered in the 2027 high-school intake.

Ben will spend his final year of high school combining intensive performing-arts training with his academic studies.

He has secured a scholarship from Iglu Melbourne, reducing his accommodation to A$400 a week, but a full year in Melbourne will still cost close to NZ$60,000.

Your donation could help with:

$50 – groceries and everyday costs

$250 – specialist dance shoes

$500 – approximately one week’s rent

$1,000 – flights to and from Melbourne

$1,500 – school uniform and dancewear

Ben has grown up in Christchurch theatre, performing with Showbiz Christchurch, The Court Theatre, Enchanting Productions, Theatrewise and others, and sings with Voices Co’s auditioned Youth Squad.

Those of us who know Ben see an exceptionally talented, focused, responsible and humble young man.

Plus, he’s just a really good human!

Ben has earned this opportunity. We want to make sure finances don’t stop him taking it.

His family would never ask for support themselves, so as his friend — and one of his “show mums” — I’m asking our community to help. Sponsors are welcome too!

Every donation gets Ben a little closer to Melbourne. Give a Little to Help a Lot!

Marcella Herrera's involvement (page creator)

I've known Ben since chaperoning him in theatre as a child, and became a family friend and proud “show mum”. When his family said they might have to turn down this opportunity, I knew I had to do everything I could to help.

Use of funds

Our first priority is Ben’s 52 weeks of accommodation in Melbourne. Funds help with accommodation, flights, uniform, dancewear and shoes, a laptop, food and everyday living costs. If we fall short, funds will be used in that order.