Michael Jones Jeweller has expanded its long-standing partnership with Royal & Derngate by becoming sponsor of the Northampton theatre’s new VIP lounge.
From September, the recently refurbished space, currently known as The Green Room, will be renamed the Michael Jones Jeweller VIP Lounge. The lounge will be available to customers attending selected performances as part of premium ticket packages, while also hosting corporate events, private hire and festive afternoon teas.
The sponsorship builds on Michael Jones Jeweller’s support for Royal & Derngate over the past nine years as lead sponsor of the theatre’s Made in Northampton productions and as a member of its Business Club.
The Made in Northampton programme has produced several nationally recognised productions, including The Pope, which inspired the feature film The Two Popes, and the Olivier Award-winning The Worst Witch. This autumn’s programme includes the world premiere of Once Upon a Time in Sokoto, a co-production of Othello and a new adaptation of What the Ladybird Heard at Christmas.
Holly Gladwell, acting chief executive of Royal & Derngate, said: “We are hugely grateful to Michael Jones Jeweller for their support over the years and for their latest venture in putting their name behind our new VIP lounge.
“In these challenging times, ticket sales and grant funding provide an essential foundation, but they do not fully cover the breadth of activity that we strive to deliver. The support of local businesses like Michael Jones Jeweller is therefore invaluable in helping us continue to serve the community as a thriving venue, producing our own brand-new theatre, presenting a diverse range of touring shows and working with young people and schools.”
Robert White of Michael Jones Jeweller said: “We at Michael Jones Jeweller are delighted to sponsor the new VIP Lounge at Royal & Derngate, with whom we have enjoyed a long-standing relationship. It is a hugely important cultural hub for Northamptonshire and beyond.
“The VIP Lounge will enhance the theatre, concert and live entertainment experience for everyone who uses it. Our whole community benefits from the additional support provided by Royal & Derngate’s business partners, and we are proud to play our part in supporting this fantastic venue.”
The sponsorship forms part of Royal & Derngate’s wider programme of business partnerships, which help support its artistic programme, community projects and work with schools and young people.
Image: Robert White of Michael Jones Jeweller with Royal & Derngate Acting CEO Holly Gladwell in the theatre’s new VIP lounge.
