“We are pleased to support as many local children as possible to get access to performing arts tuition so that they can achieve their goals and develop confidence by getting involved with the artistic and education programmes at the Barn.”

With the help of two local insurance firms, Ecclesiastical Insurance and Lumley Insurance, the Barn Theatre will be able to kickstart its education and outreach programme for schools. Iwan Lewis, Artistic Director at the Barn Theatre, has just received a donation of £2,500 from Gloucester-based Ecclesiastical Insurance.

Iwan Lewis, Artistic Director at the Barn, outlined his plans to support more young people around Cirencester: ‘We’re extremely grateful for this donation. Education is at the heart of this theatre. We’re already seeing hundreds of young people through our doors for the summer project and extra-curricular tuition, but this is just the start. We want everyone to have full access to performing arts tuition, whatever their background.

“The performing arts makes a real difference in young lives today, developing much-needed confidence, creativity, collaboration and communication. I will be working with our new Academy Director, Kimberley Moses, to grow talent through the Barn Academy.’

Local firm, Lumley Insurance, applied for grant funding from Ecclesiastical Insurance Group’s ‘Closer to You’ charity support programme to be able to boost support for the Barn Theatre. This programme gives Ecclesiastical’s Select insurance broker partners the chance to be part of its ambition to give £100million to good causes.

Speaking on behalf of the company, John Lumley, CEO, explained, “We believe in the professionalism and dedication of the team at the Barn Theatre. We are pleased to support as many local children as possible to get access to performing arts tuition so that they can achieve their goals and develop confidence by getting involved with the artistic and education programmes at the Barn.”

If you are interested in enrolling your child for at the Barn Academy, or if you would like to register interest in a Barn Outreach workshop at your school, contact Kim Moses on 01285 648244 or kim.moses@barntheatre.org.uk.

For further information about the Barn Theatre, visit barntheatre.org.uk. Book tickets for the September shows by calling Box Office on 01285 648255.