A whole host of local businesses, and indeed theatre loving individuals, have shown their support for the arts in Worcestershire, by sponsoring the city’s main producing theatre company, the Worcester Repertory Company, in one of its biggest productions of the year – its annual two-week outdoor production in the gardens of Worcester’s historic Commandery.

Acting Artistic Director of the Worcester Repertory Company, Ben Humphrey is keen to let businesses know that sponsoring productions is about more than just giving money. Humphrey explains, “Sponsoring productions and the arts is a great way to give back to the community, and we are thrilled that the companies who regularly support our work are a part of bringing live performance to as many people as possible. The cultural offering of Worcester is made possible by socially aware businesses and individuals who recognise that the arts are an essential part of a community’s identity. I cannot express how grateful the Worcester Rep is for this support.”

Dubbed ‘Worcester Rep at the Commandery’, the Rep’s annual outdoor event has become something of an institution since its first season back in 2007.  This year it is Jane Austen’s classic novel, Pride & Prejudice that has been given ‘the Rep treatment’, in a brand new spoof version written by Chris Jaeger and directed by Ben Humphrey. On Friday (28th June), the sponsors were invited to The Swan Theatre to have a sneak peek of rehearsals and to meet this year’s cast.

Representatives from The King’s School Worcester, Worcester Bosch, and Worcester Family Law Practice, were all in attendance, as well as John and Anna Yelland who have all sponsored the Worcester Rep at the Commandery for several years.

Sue Pennington, the representative for Worcester Bosch commented: “Worcester Bosch has sponsored the events at the Commandery for a number of years. We are committed to supporting the local community wherever possible and are delighted to support local arts – it’s quite often overlooked and funding is on the decline so we are pleased that our sponsorship helps the team to continue providing top class performances for audiences in Worcester.”

Pride & (quite a lot of) Prejudice opens on Tuesday 2nd July and runs until Sunday 14th July. For more information or to book tickets please contact the Box Office on 01905 611427 or visit www.worcesterlive.co.uk.