Marlborough Theatre
Arts facilities contributes towards improving social and cultural wellbeing
Scientists have recently proven what art lovers have instinctively known for years – that the experience of emotions when you’re moved by fictional characters in a play or a novel creates an empathetic experience – you put yourself in someone else’s shoes. As The Guardian reports science has shown that it actually establishes the creation of neural pathways rooted in empathy, which help to navigate life’s problems. While we may be entertained on the surface, the role of arts in the community is crucial.
When it became clear that the Marlborough Theatre was struggling to make ends meet after being supported through the Marlborough Centre Theatre Trust (MCTT) for the preceding 20 years, it was clear action was needed. The situation had to be considered in terms of what is best for the arts and Marlborough in the long term.
The Marlborough District Council through their Marlborough District Arts and Cultural Strategy Implementation document are supporters of the arts. The strategy recognises the key role of the arts in the city’s social, cultural and economic development and the vital role the arts play in improving the lives of citizens – culturally and socially as well as commercially.
Giblin Group joined the team to develop a revenue generation strategy on what were the best options for the theatre, whether this was a refurbishment or a greenfields complete rebuild. What resulted was a clear vision, to provide a centre of excellence for the performing arts in the Marlborough District, which is a modern accessible community facility for performance, teaching, promoting and nurturing the arts. It will also be a facility that can be used by community groups for meetings, displays, community forums and consultation purposes.
The MCTT believes that the provision of this facility will contribute towards improving social and cultural wellbeing in the district. Giblin Group went on to apply for significant grants.
Since 2011 I have worked with Jenni and Christine on a number of highly successful fundraising initiatives in support of the Sarjeant Gallery Redevelopment Project. With their help and expertise, we have raised more than $28.8m from central government and Lottery sources. The Giblin Group are a pleasure to work with and have provided great advice on many occasions concerning communications and public engagement. I can certainly recommend their services.
Giblin Group supported Blue Oyster with developing a robust Funding Strategy that took into account the specific needs of our organisation and activity. Jenni and Jess offered substantial advice and support in, not only establishing this strategy but giving us helpful tools for implementation and always prioritised sustainability throughout. Their enthusiasm for our space and activity was truly felt and appreciated – our relationship with them will be nourished and valued well into the future.
“As our thinking evolved, Giblin Group showed a steady commitment to deepen their understanding of our needs. We always looked forward to our coaching sessions which were stimulating and inspiring. Jess and Jenni became valued colleagues that supported and provoked thinking with rigour and generosity. They’re now not only valuable advocates for BATS but part of our whānau.”
“Jenni did a fantastic job in helping us to secure critical partnerships and funding support for our internationally significant Len Lye Centre project – what’s more we really enjoyed working with her.”
“Giblin Group’s knowledge of government practices and procedures on a national and local level is invaluable, and I often find that they are well connected with staff and officials on all levels of Government. Giblin Group scopes their assignments well, provides accurate cost estimates for their services, delivers within the agreed timeframes and always deliver excellent quality work – no project manager can really ask for more!”
“The work that the Giblin Group completed, in collaboration with our staff, was instrumental in the success the project has had in securing significant funding to this key City initiative. In particular we have found the experience of the Giblin Group to been invaluable in seeking funding from a variety of sources in an increasingly challenging environment.”