Yorkshire Bank has become a Business Champion of The Civic, Barnsley. The membership scheme invites businesses to support The Civic and its ambitious campaign to be a world-class centre for the Arts by 2023.
The arts charity is running a £5m fundraising #Connect campaign to renovate the dormant third of the historic building, with a vision to add a new theatre, café and extended gallery.
Helen Ball, CEO of The Civic, said: “In an era of funding cuts, subsidies for The Arts have been reduced, and so we are extremely grateful to Yorkshire Bank for their support. We passionately believe Barnsley deserves a rich cultural life and offer. Culture is a proven powerful tool for regeneration, as seen in former industrial regions like Liverpool and Hull.”
Barnsley Branch Manager of Yorkshire Bank, Jarrad Kitson, said: “The Civic is working hard to diversify and become more sustainable, with a vision to expand its trading income with its exciting expansion plans. We are proud to support this remarkable cultural asset and legacy that is so important to Barnsley.”
The #Connect campaign has the backing of a wealth of celebrity Civic Champions to help raise funds and awareness, including Sir Michael Parkinson and Dame Jenni Murray, authors Milly Johnson and Joanne Harris, poet Ian McMillan and singer, Kate Rusby.
Alongside a year-round arts programme, The Civic offers educational and engagement activities with schools and local community groups. It also operates a Community Champion scheme for those keen to collaborate for the benefit of Barnsley’s shared community. Members include Barnsley Hospice and BIADS (Barnsley Dementia Support).
Helen added: “Our #Connect campaign brings Barnsley’s community together, with people and organisations who understand the unifying and transformative power culture can have. We are thankful for this Civic family, and welcome any further organisations who want to help shape our exciting vision to return The Civic to its rightful former glory, and ensure Barnsley’s future as a significant cultural destination.”
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Editors Notes
#Connect Appeal
The £5m #connect fundraising appeal is to complete building renovations and return The Civic to its former glory.
The Civic is a leading arts charity; Registered charity no. 1129765. http://www.barnsleycivic.co.uk/
Engage in the campaign on Twitter: @BarnsleyCivic #connect
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