News Story

A welcome boost for Theatre Royal Winchester and local arts

We're pleased to share some brilliant news – Trethowans, a leading law firm with a strong presence in Winchester and across the central South, has renewed its Strategic Partnership with Play to the Crowd for another year.

Their continued support means a great deal to us. As the charity behind Theatre Royal Winchester and Hat Fair, we rely on the backing of committed partners like Trethowans to help us bring live performance, creativity and connection to communities across our district. 

Supporting creativity at the heart of Winchester

Trethowans first joined us as Strategic Partner of Theatre Royal Winchester in 2023. Since then, they’ve helped strengthen the cultural life of the city by championing our work and helping us reach more people.

Their renewal ensures that this valued partnership continues for a third year, supporting everything from our main stage programme to our work with young people and local communities.

Laura Bell, family law Partner and Head of the Winchester office at Trethowans, said: "As we enter our third year as Strategic Partner of Theatre Royal Winchester, we remain proud to support such a valued community asset. The venue’s rich history, combined with the inspiring work of Play to the Crowd, continues to bring people together through arts, culture and education. We’re delighted to continue our partnership and champion the theatre’s role in the region."

Live performance plays a big role in building stronger, healthier communities, and we're grateful to Trethowans for recognising the importance of that

Deryck Newland (Chief Executive and Artistic Director, Play to the Crowd)

Real commitment to arts and community

This year, Trethowans also played an important part in our involvement in Winchester’s inaugural Legacy Action Week, with their Private Client team offering free advice and information to members of the public about wills, donations and the long-term impact of legacy giving.

Their participation helped us start more conversations about planning for the future and supporting causes that matter – something that’s vital to the long-term sustainability of our work.

Deryck Newland, our Chief Executive, summed it up: "We’re delighted that Trethowans are continuing their support for another year. Their investment helps us bring live performance to more people and keep Theatre Royal Winchester thriving."

Our Communications and Development Director, Kirstie Mathieson, added: "Support from local businesses like Trethowans makes a real difference. Their continued backing shows real commitment to the arts and to the community. We’re grateful for their energy and enthusiasm."

Partnerships like this one help keep that work going.

If you'd like to find out more about how your business can support Play to the Crowd, get in touch.

Together, we can keep Winchester creative, connected and thriving.

Marisa Goldsborough, Fundraising Manager, black top, necklace, glasses

Get in touch

Interested in supporting? Call Marisa on 01962 844 600 or email marisa@playtothecrowd.co.uk