The University of Kent lifts the curtain on the Director’s Circle, Celebrating Patrons of the Arts

The Gulbenkian Theatre, a cornerstone of arts and culture at the University of Kent, proudly announced the launch of its Director’s Circle on Wednesday17th April 2024.  This prestigious initiative brings together a distinguished group of founding members committed to supporting the Gulbenkian’s artistic endeavours.

To celebrate this momentous occasion, the University hosted an exclusive event for the founding members of the Director’s Circle. It was an evening of appreciation and recognition for their invaluable contribution to the arts.

The Director’s Circle comprises leading businesses from the Canterbury area and we are most grateful to the following for their support:

  • Abbott Construction
  • Betteridge & Milson
  • Fitzgerald Jewellers
  • Host & Stay
  • JJ Systems
  • Leverets
  • Lilford Gallery
  • Paul Roberts Canterbury
  • Pharon Independent Financial Advisers Ltd
  • Walker Construction

David Sefton, Artistic Director of the Gulbenkian and Director of Projects for the Institute of Cultural and Creative Industries at the University of Kent said: “It was an absolute privilege to welcome our esteemed founding members of the Director’s Circle to the stage. Their dedication to the arts is truly inspiring and their support will have a profound impact on the artistic landscape of the Gulbenkian and the University of Kent. We look forward to building a strong and lasting relationship with them in the years to come, together fostering a vibrant space for artistic expression and appreciation.”

Angela Jackson-Grillet from Host & Stay added: “Host & Stay is delighted to become a Founding Member of the Director’s Circle and we are looking forward to working with the team at the University and the other Members of this prestigious group. The Gulbenkian has such a great vibe and we can’t wait to see even more fabulous performances – cinematic, musical and theatrical.”

The Director’s Circle represents a significant commitment to the Gulbenkian’s mission. Through their generous support, the Director’s Circle will help fund a variety of artistic programmes, exhibitions and educational initiatives. This will not only enrich the cultural landscape of the University but also benefit the wider Canterbury community.

The Gulbenkian looks forward to a thriving partnership with the Director’s Circle, ensuring a vibrant future for the arts at the University of Kent.

If your business would also like to become a member of the Director’s Circle, please get in touch. For an annual membership fee of £1000+VAT, our Director’s Circle enjoys a close relationship with Gulbenkian and the University.

Benefits include:

– Reserved access to tickets (on most shows, subject to availability)
– Exclusive invitations to our Season Launch and Opening Night Events
– Unique opportunities to network with fellow members and industry special guests
– Branding in all three venues, foyers, online and in our brochures
– Expert membership support from our Philanthropy Team

 

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