Prince Edward becomes Patron of Reading theatre group
It marks the Reading Rep's 10th Anniversary
HRH Prince Edward, The Earl of Wessex, has been announced as the Royal Patron for the professional theatre 'Reading Rep'.
The Earl of Wessex joins the theatre as it celebrates its 10th anniversary and one year since the opening of its new 163-seat theatre and cultural hub, which was built and opened during the pandemic.
The Earl of Wessex takes a keen interest in the arts and is Patron of a range of organisations that aim to widen opportunities within the sector, particularly for young people. His Royal Highness formerly worked in theatre and television production, before becoming a full-time working member of the Royal Family in 2002.
HRH Prince Edward, The Earl of Wessex said:
“Reading Rep is rapidly becoming an essential part of the arts scene in Reading for three really good reasons. It is creating pathways to the performing arts for young people, regardless of background; it is introducing new audiences to the performing arts through its outreach and access activities; and it is a space providing an alternative venue for creative and production talents to hone their skills. I look forward to helping with reinforcing this theatre’s inspiring work in the local community and to supporting its future endeavours.”
Paul Stacey, Founding Artistic Director of Reading Rep said:
“It is a huge privilege to welcome HRH The Earl of Wessex as Reading Rep Theatre’s Royal Patron. His Royal Highness has shown incredible support for arts and culture and his recognition and support of Reading Rep and the work we do both on stage and in the community, is humbling. We are excited to work with HRH in forwarding our shared goals and aspirations for art and culture in Reading.”
Reading Rep recently opened their tenth anniversary season with the world premiere of Gary McNair’s adaptation of the classic Robert Louis Stevenson tale, Jekyll & Hyde, starring Olivier and Grammy award-nominated performer Audrey Brisson (Amélie, Into The Woods) and directed by Michael Fentiman (Amélie, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe).
The tenth anniversary season will also include a festive return of Beth Flintoff’s Reading-based adaptation of A Christmas Carol, a new queer adaptation of the Ibsen classic Hedda Gabler co-produced with Associate Company A Girl Called Stephen.
More information can be found at www.readingrep.com.