Gateley, the legal and professional services group, has renewed its long‑standing partnership with Leeds Playhouse as it continues to support one of the region’s most important independent cultural institutions.

The award-winning theatre has been at the heart of the city since opening its doors in 1970 and the renewal sees Gateley reinforce its commitment to the Yorkshire creative scene whilst supporting the local community through the Playhouse’s extensive outreach programme, which reaches thousands of people across Leeds and West Yorkshire every year.

As part of the renewal, Gateley will continue to support these initiatives, which include creative learning projects, work with young people, older communities, and those facing barriers to accessing the arts.

As an independent theatre, the Playhouse relies on the support of its valued partners, grants and bursaries, and donations to enable it to deliver its artistic programme of world-class, pioneering work.

Roger McCourt, commercial dispute resolution partner and Leeds office head, said: “Leeds Playhouse is one of the leading theatres in the country and has been championing inspiring storytelling for decades. It is undoubtedly a jewel in the Yorkshire crown and we are honoured to be renewing our partnership with them.

“As well as being the creative hub for the city and beyond, the work they do in the community to make the arts more accessible is incredibly admirable and ties in perfectly with Gateley’s responsible business ambitions. We look forward to seeing some fantastic productions this year and supporting their artists and communities.”

Shawab Iqbal, Chief executive of Leeds Playhouse said: “We are delighted to be continuing our relationship with Gateley. Their continued support plays a vital role in helping us create bold, inspiring theatre and expanding our work in communities across Yorkshire and beyond. Together, we can ensure that creativity is accessible to everyone and that the Playhouse remains a vibrant cultural home for our city.”

Gateley has been a partner of Leeds Playhouse since 2019. This year, the theatre will host performances of  Small Island; I, Daniel Blake; Brassed Off; and Dr Seuss’s How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical, amongst many other touring, comedy and community performances.