With over 170,000 people walking through the curve theatre doors last year, there is no doubt that the venue’s popularity is increasing.
Recently, the theatre was crowned winner of the ‘Access for All Tourism Award’ at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2012, which recognises the financial, social and legal reasons for improving businesses’ access and showing other companies how they could benefit.
Head of business development Hannah Hallam, speaks about the additional facilities and opportunities the community may not be aware of.
The venue has two dedicated meeting spaces for hire, ideal for both local and national businesses. There are also additional rehearsal rooms available to rent out, and for larger events the entire venue can be used.
There is also the option of joining the business club or getting involved through sponsorship opportunities.
Hannah said: “With businesses it is about mutual benefit. We have six networking events across the year and opportunities for business-to-business networking with a slight twist. There are activities and sessions on stage with technical demonstrations about the work place, posture and confidence and various other strands of working, including elements within the art world and how they relate to the business world.”
Eight businesses have already signed up to the club, with many more considering it as an extra option. Hannah added: “It is hard at the moment and we’re fully aware of how difficult it is for businesses to spend additional money, but we make sure it is good value for money.”
There is the option of joining on an ad hoc basis or signing up to the membership, which includes complimentary tickets, which can then be used to entertain clients or even used as a reward for staff.
While the Curve is part of a registered charity, Hannah adds that funding is getting more and more difficult to come by every year and therefore it is essential that as a company they find new and innovative ways to not only engage with the community, but find some extra income to ensure this work carries on.
A lot of the money donated goes towards supporting the education work that is carried out including workshops and activities for young people and school children. Last year alone 16,000 people were reported to have benefited from initiatives run by the Curve.
Donations from members of the public are also encouraged, whether they be in the form of a written cheque, physical money or an additional pound or two from visitors purchasing tickets online.
Hannah said: “People are really supportive of their local theatre. We want to ensure that it is not going to be a lost art and that even the younger generation are appreciating it. We want people to know that even a donation of £1 can have a huge impact. If they’ve seen a great show they can go on to ensure that someone else has the opportunity to see a great show.”
The theatre remains to be a top attraction spot for people coming into the city and it is reported that up to 20% of audiences coming to the Curve are from outside the region.
With peak times like Christmas, proving to be hugely popular, it is ideal for any business looking for sponsorship opportunities to raise their profile.
