Theatre receives £2.5 million funding boost

A theatre aspiring to be one of the top ten reasons to live and work in North Staffordshire has secured a £2.5 million grant. 

The money from the Denise Coates Foundation will be given to the New Vic Theatre, in Newcastle, split across a five-year period. 

Further announcements on what the money will be used for are expected soon, but audiences have been told they can expect to see large scale shows on the New Vic stage, plus new play commissions and audience development initiatives. 

There will also be an increase in the number of creative artists the theatre is able to work with and an investment in making work the whole family can enjoy.  

New Vic Managing Director Fiona Wallace, above, said: “We are very proud of the work that the New Vic does but we couldn’t do any of it without the support of local people. 

“This generous grant from the Denise Coates Foundation recognises the important role we can play for the future of our area. 

“We have a strong track record of creating ambitious, high-quality theatre and this vital support will allow us to navigate the current economic climate in a positive way, making investments into future artistic work and audience growth for the theatre.” 

Denise Coates CBE, of the Denise Coates Foundation, said: “This area is so lucky to have the New Vic, its productions bring joy and entertainment to so many. 

“This additional investment will further enhance the quality of its output and I am delighted that the Foundation is able to play its part in enabling the New Vic to take that next step in the delivery of its artistic ambition.” 

The New Vic produces around eight major productions a year. Its production of bio-play Marvellous transferred to London last year and opened the first new West End theatre in over 50 years. 

The Denise Coates Foundation was established by the bet365 boss in 2012 with the aim of making a positive difference to people’s lives. To date, it has donated/committed to donate circa £84 million.