Sir Michael Parkinson supports The Civic Appeal

Cause UK is providing media support to The Civic in Barnsley. Sir Michael Parkinson has backed a major £5m fundraising campaign to renovate The Civic, Barnsley, to become a world-class…

Cause UK is providing media support to The Civic in Barnsley.

Sir Michael Parkinson has backed a major £5m fundraising campaign to renovate The Civic, Barnsley, to become a world-class destination for the arts by 2023.

Artist's impression

Artist’s impression

The Civic is an independent arts charity. Originally a Public Hall before becoming a theatre, The Civic is a much loved Grade II listed building that has been part of the town since 1877.

A modern extension was opened in 2009, but a third of the historic building is unoccupied with its traditional front entrance and foyer on Eldon Street disconnected from the rest of the building.

The general public is being asked to #connect to help raise awareness and funds on social media.

Helen Ball, CEO of The Civic, said: “The Civic represents the heart of Barnsley. Our vision is to reinstate the historic main entrance and re-connect it to the town and its people, returning The Civic to its rightful former glory. It’s about giving The Civic back to the people, and ensuring Barnsley’s future as a significant cultural destination.”

The front of the building is currently being hired by the council as office space, with historic access points blocked off. The renovation will include an Eldon Street box office and café, the refurbishment of three un-used floors, featuring an extended gallery and a new theatre space.

Sir Michael Parkinson said: “The arts are an integral part of what it means to be human.  They contribute to our spirit and enrich our lives. Barnsley can be proud of the contribution it has made to the world of literature, theatre, radio, television, music and sport.  That is why this campaign is important and why I am proud to be a Patron of The Civic.  Please support us.”

Alongside a year-round arts programme, The Civic offers educational and engagement activities with schools and local community groups, such as Cross the Sky, a theatre company for adults with learning disabilities.

The renovation will extend its range of quality cultural and community events.  The #connect campaign aims to engage with businesses, philanthropists and the general public.

Steve Wragg, Chair of The Civic, said: “I first went to the theatre at aged ten and I became forever stage struck. As Chair of The Civic I am keen to urge the Barnsley community, business leaders and funders to support our 2023 capital appeal so that future generations can engage with a world-class arts programme right here on our doorstep, helping to open the doors of opportunity for our young people and generations to come.”

Helen added: “It’s a fantastic opportunity for Barnsley, as for a time limited period, the Arts Council has agreed to match every £1 donated with a £1 to help us reach our initial target, so any kind donation will make a real difference. We’re really keen to hear from anyone who wants to join in the campaign, or become advocates for the arts and help us build this exciting future. Let’s get our front door back!”

To donate, or find out more, go to www.barnsleycivic.co.uk

@BarnsleyCivic #connect

For more media info, photo or interview requests, please contact clair@causeuk.com or ann@causeuk.com tel: 0753 489 2715.

#Connect Appeal

The Civic is a leading arts charity; Registered charity no. 1129765

The £5m #connect fundraising appeal is to complete building renovations and return The Civic to its full glory. Our vision is to create a world-class destination for the arts by 2023.

We want The Civic to be the pride of Barnsley’s town Centre; help us put it back as Barnsley’s heart.

Donate here: https://localgiving.org/charity/thecivicbarnsley/

Engage in the campaign on Twitter: @BarnsleyCivic #connect

See media launch coverage here

http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/analysis/art-and-culture-at-the-heart-of-barnsley-s-regeneration-1-8435216

 http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-south-yorkshire-39235348

http://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/sir-michael-parkinson-backs-5million-10013901

http://www.thebusinessdesk.com/yorkshire/news/746945-sir-michael-parkinson-backs-5m-campaign-to-renovate-historic-building.html

http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/sir-michael-parkinson-backs-5m-theatre-campaign-to-help-enrich-our-lives-1-8434869

http://www.expressandstar.com/entertainment/showbiz-news/2017/03/13/parkinson-backs-5-million-campaign-to-renovate-barnsley-theatre/

http://www.worthingherald.co.uk/news/celebs/parkinson-backs-5-million-campaign-to-renovate-barnsley-theatre-1-7863139

http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/entertainment/news/parkinson-backs-5-million-campaign-to-renovate-barnsley-theatre-35524738.html

http://jerseyeveningpost.com/features/showbiz-news/2017/03/13/parkinson-backs-5-million-campaign-to-renovate-barnsley-theatre/

http://www.independent.ie/style/celebrity/celebrity-news/parkinson-backs-5-million-campaign-to-renovate-barnsley-theatre-35524734.html

http://www.eveningecho.ie/viral/sir-michael-parkinson-backs-5-million-campaign-to-renovate-barnsley-theatre/2647788/

http://celebfresh.co.uk/news/sir-michael-parkinson-backs-5-million-push-to-renovate-home-town-theatre

http://minitrends.club/ie/1049465-Michael-Parkinson

http://www.w3livenews.com/2017/03/13/Sir-Michael-Parkinson-supports-new-charity-appeal/5804419

http://tv.bt.com/tv/tv-news/sir-michael-parkinson-backs-5-million-campaign-to-renovate-barnsley-theatre-11364164166792

http://www.thestar.co.uk/news/michael-parkinson-backs-campaign-for-5-million-re-vamp-of-barnsley-theatre-1-8435351

http://www.charitytoday.co.uk/sir-michael-parkinson-supports-new-charity-appeal/