Lyric Theatre and Electric Ireland shortlisted for the 2022 Achates Philanthropy Prize

The Lyric nominated Electric Ireland for the Corporate Award for taking up the title sponsorship forRough Girls, a new play about the first Northern Irish women’s football team in the 1920s, and one of the first live productions in the theatre since its closure during the pandemic. The Rough Girls sponsorship was a perfect fit for Electric Ireland as an extension of their existing campaign ‘Game Changers NI’, which aims to increase participation and attendance of women’s football, and drive conversations around women in sport locally. This nomination demonstrates how partnership can benefit both organisations: in supporting the show Electric Ireland demonstrated its care and investment in local communities and the Lyric enjoyed the increased profile as part of Electric Ireland’s ‘Game Changers NI’ campaign which in turn brought a new sports-engaged audience to the theatre.

The Lyric and Electric Ireland join a shortlist of six trailblazing new corporate partnerships for cultural organisations of all sizes and scales – across dance, museums, theatre, literature and the visual arts - from Glasgow to Manchester, Belfast to Birmingham. Each individual and company on the shortlist has been nominated by a cultural organisation to express appreciation for their outstanding contribution, which includes financial donations and gifts in-kind, expertise and skill sharing, as well as network growth and positive advocacy.

Cultural Philanthropy Foundation Chair, Caroline McCormick, said: “The shortlists for the 2022 Achates Philanthropy Prize showcase an inspiring set of examples of good practice, relationship building and sheer fundraising success. The leadership these organisations have shown not only in terms of dedication to ensuring culture is embedded in their communities, but also to inspiring their colleagues at a time when resources are so limited, is outstanding.”

Claire Murray, Head of Development and Marketing, Lyric Theatre, added:

“The partnership between Lyric and Electric Ireland was a hugely innovative sponsorship which was successful at bringing a new sporting audience to theatre and sport to an arts audience. We are delighted that this partnership has been recognised, and that we join a shortlist of six trailblazing new corporate partnerships for cultural organisations right across the UK.”

Anne Smyth, Sponsorships Electric Ireland, said:

“The Electric Ireland partnership with the Lyric has been a brilliant example of partnership work. Through a proactive approach the Lyric and Electric Ireland have worked really closely together in a way that supports and reflects our core values”.

The winners will be announced at a special ceremony at Birmingham Symphony Hall on Wednesday 9th November 2022.

THE SHORTLIST:

The 2022 Corporate Award shortlist is:

Artichoke Trust & Youfibre
Lyric Theatre Belfast & Electric Ireland
Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) & PATRIZIA
Scottish Ballet & Sandman Hotels UK & Ireland
The Big House & 42 Management & Production
Roundhouse & Vice Media Group