53two have today announced that internationally acclaimed poet & proud Mancunian Tony Walsh is set to become their patron as he throws his support behind them and their continued plan to provide quality and affordable theatre that is accessible for all, supporting emerging talent, engaging a ‘theatre-for-all’ way of existence & focussing on their charity work.
Last week, friend of the arches and one of Manchester’s most recognised artists, took some time out of his 2019 tour to throw his full backing behind theatre 53two in their bid to open a new theatre space, following their imminent departure from the old Bauer Millett showroom.
Sadly, 53two’s current home was always set to succumb to the ever present property development climate that sees not only our skyline prickle with high-rise buildings, but, perhaps more importantly, has all but crushed the grass-roots theatre world in Manchester.
53two are expected to reveal their potential new home next week, as planning is submitted.
Tony’s philosophy on art is one that mirrors the work of the arches almost word for word, he himself having struggled from a working-class background, to today, teaching and performing internationally and on TV screens to an audience of millions.
A passionate educator, Tony has led acclaimed, inspirational workshops for organisations as diverse as The Prince’s Teaching Institute, The Prince’s Trust, BBC Blast, Youth Dance England, Manchester Business School, Ledbury Poetry Festival and The National Football Museum.
Tony first performed in the arches of 53two shortly after they opened and since, has become a follower of their work.
“53Two has quickly become a vital component in the arts ecology and economy of Manchester and I was saddened to hear of its need to vacate its current home in the arches. I am delighted to be able to offer my support as a patron towards their future work.
“53two has provided a high quality and supportive platform for both local and touring productions as well as being a home for important fringe-level, cabaret, poetry and musical performances and artists.
“This is a level, scene and network that is vital for emerging artists, for sustaining established artists, and one for which audiences are not hugely well served elsewhere in the city centre. It is in such venues that the skills are gained, the ideas are developed and the relationships are built that makes Manchester the world renowned centre for the arts that we must remain.”
53two, Lawrence House, 8 Albion St, Manchester M1 5LN
07432 198724
53two.com
