Spooky “Scream Team” Raised Over £11,200 For Sick Kids

A group of West Midlands horror performers turned screams into a spooktacular £11,200-plus to support sick kids.

Murder House Productions was set up by local horror fan, Matt Hardware, and uses live scare acting to raise vital funds on behalf of our hospital.

The group’s “scream team” provide spine-tingling event performances for both families and adults, from spooky parties and horror convention appearances to blood-curdling “scare mazes”. The actors all volunteer their time for free, asking event hosts to donate to the cause, as well as encouraging audiences to show their support.

Murder House Productions’ founder Matt Hardware was inspired to create his dream scream team after doctors at our Children’s Hospital saved the life of his nephew, Archie, who was born with a rare heart condition. Many of the group’s performers have personal connections to the magic the hospital brings, using their bone-chilling talents as a way of giving back.

This year the group is to be recognised at our annual 100 Heroes event, which showcases and thanks top fundraising supporters for their particularly special efforts.

Matt Hardware, founder of Murder House Productions, said: “When we first started, we weren’t sure how big we’d become or how much we could raise. Seeing how we’ve grown makes me so proud – audiences say it’s like our performers stepped straight out of a horror movie!

“We all do it for the fun and because we love scare acting, but mostly because we’re so passionate about raising money for such a special cause. My nephew Archie wouldn’t be here today without the hospital, and this is our way of saying thank you and helping other kids like him.”

Annie Eytle, Head of Public Fundraising at Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “All the monsters and mayhem might be too spooky for some, but we know the money raised by Murder House Productions is making a vital difference to sick kids.

“They are a truly special supporter, which is why we were so proud to nominate them as one of our 100 Heroes.”