In 2024, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars proudly marks the 21st anniversary of its Platinum Partnership with Chichester Festival Theatre (CFT), reaffirming the brand’s enduring commitment to its local community and cultural enrichment. This long-standing relationship, which began in 2003—the same year Rolls-Royce established its Home at Goodwood—has seen the marque consistently support one of the most renowned theatres in the world.
As the 2024 Summer Gala Sponsor, Rolls-Royce had a prominent presence at CFT’s prestigious annual event, which featured an exclusive performance of the musical Oliver!, directed by the celebrated Sir Matthew Bourne and produced by Sir Cameron Mackintosh. The event culminated in a private dinner with the cast and company, creating an intimate and unforgettable experience for attendees. Proceeds from the Gala are earmarked to fund CFT’s outreach programs, particularly those aimed at providing creative opportunities for local young people.
Andrew Ball, Head of Corporate Relations and Heritage at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, expressed the brand’s enthusiasm for this milestone: “Our support for Chichester Festival Theatre (CFT) began in 2003, the same year we first launched the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood. As well as staging truly world-class productions, CFT does amazing work bringing theatre’s unique opportunities for personal development, confidence building, teamwork, and sheer joy to local young people facing huge life challenges. As a company, we see ourselves reflected in CFT: a relatively small group of people, closely connected to their local community, working at the very pinnacle of their art and with an influence and reputation that extends around the world. It’s a pleasure to be embarking on the third decade of this wonderful partnership.”
Chichester Festival Theatre has long been a cultural beacon in the region. Founded in 1962 under the artistic directorship of the legendary Sir Laurence Olivier, the theatre attracts over 350,000 theatregoers each year. The partnership with Rolls-Royce, which began just as the marque was opening its new home in Goodwood, has played a vital role in supporting both the theatre’s world-class productions and its community outreach efforts.
Liz McCarthy-Nield, Director of Development at CFT, highlighted the importance of this enduring collaboration: “We are delighted to continue our Platinum Partnership with Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, and were especially pleased to have the marque’s support as our Summer Gala Sponsor. Following a hugely successful run of Oliver! this summer, CFT was thrilled to host the sold-out Gala performance. Proceeds raised from the Summer Gala will support bursaries for disadvantaged young people to take part in our youth theatre and other creative projects, enabling access to all the transformative benefits of theatre. We are incredibly grateful to Rolls-Royce Motor Cars for generously supporting this event.”
The Gala’s fundraising efforts align with both CFT’s and Rolls-Royce’s shared goal of empowering the next generation. Through this partnership, disadvantaged young people can access bursaries that allow them to participate in the theatre’s youth programs, where they develop confidence, creativity, and teamwork skills.
As Rolls-Royce enters its third decade of partnership with CFT, the synergy between the two entities continues to flourish, each achieving excellence in their respective fields while giving back to the community. This celebration of art, craftsmanship, and community is a testament to the enduring value of cultural patronage.
