The Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, visited Z-arts just before Christmas. He was joined by Z-arts principal business sponsor Daren Whitaker, the founder and Managing Director of Renaker Build Ltd, one of the North West’s leading property developers.

Renaker, together with The Foyle Foundation, has made a generous investment for new seating in Z-arts’ theatre space. The new seating, due to be installed in March 2020, will increase the theatre capacity by 10% and be more accessible for all visitors.

Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester’s Mayor, commented:

“Greater Manchester has a national and international reputation as one of the UK’s most vibrant regions for creativity…Z-arts plays an important role in introducing babies, children and young people to the exciting possibilities of creativity and inspiring them to become life-long audiences…The combination of public funding and private investment is vital in ensuring arts and culture continue to grow and thrive in Greater Manchester.”

Daren Whitaker, Managing Director of Renaker Build Ltd added:

“Renaker Build Ltd is very pleased to sponsor new theatre seating at Z-arts. By sponsoring the seating and adding more audience capacity, we’re helping Z-arts increase its box office revenue.  It means even more people will be able to see the high-quality theatre work Z-arts produces and presents.”

Liz O’Neill, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of Z-arts said:

“It means so much to have this sponsorship from Renaker Build Ltd.  Right from the beginning, it has been a great experience for our children and young people to learn more about the opportunities offered by the company doing so much work on their doorstep, helping them to consider their own potential aspirations for their future.  Now, with this investment, we are able to renew our old theatre seats which were looking a bit worn and were never really designed with little people in mind.  I can’t wait until everyone will be able to enjoy their comfort at one of our family shows, whether you’re a CEO, a mum, a child, a young person or even a mayor!”

Z-arts is delighted to be able to improve their offer to all of our visitors from Greater Manchester and beyond. By supporting our new seating project, Renaker Build Ltd has allowed for increased and improved theatre facilities in the city, and we’re delighted that Mayor Burnham is supporting this new provision.