Culture in Play 'the power of art, sport and tourism' has been explored by business leaders.
Place promotion organisation Marketing Humber brought an institution celebrating 50 years in Hull together with insight on the impact of a new arrival on the scene in Turkish TV sensation Acun Illicali as the vitality of the subject was explored.
In a first physical Bondholder Breakfast since 2020, Hull Truck Theatre was the venue and initial inspiration.
Artistic director Mark Babych told the story of the venue’s 50-year history, with a look into the next half century.
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Mark said: “When I think about our journey and the many people that have led us to this point, it is remarkable. We’re all extremely proud and want this to continue for the next 50 years. It is a valuable cultural asset that improves everybody’s lives
“In the future we want to widen access and attract new audiences, remaining a creative hub for the city that is open and accessible to all.”
Patricia Yates, deputy chief executive of VisitBritain, travelled to Hull to share a national
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perspective on the positive impact and future opportunities of digital, culture, media and sport businesses: “Walking around Hull last night it was great to see people back out and enjoying themselves after lockdown,” she said.
“The synergy of a good place to visit overlaps into a good place to live, invest and work. That sense of placemaking delivers dividends and welcomes international visitors too.”
The topic turned to sport as James Rodwell, chief executive at Hull City introduced himself
to the business community. Speaking about the new owner’s vision for the club, he said: “The football club has undergone a transition. It was one of the quickest takeovers I have ever seen.
“Acun fell in love with the region and the people, and immediately decided he wanted to buy the club, such is his determination.
“One of the most exciting parts of my job is that we have inherited great people and the challenge is to blend cultures, the Humber with the Bosphorus in Turkey.”
In a video address Chris Boardman MBE, chair of Sport England, told how “sport is the glue that holds all the society-enriching stuff, such as healthy ways of dealing with stress, improved self-esteem and being a part of something bigger, together”. That’s why it is something really worth investing in.
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“My sport - cycling - has the unique potential to change a nation in more ways still by giving all of us the means to leave the car at home. That’s my mission; to create a partner agency to Sport England – Active Travel England – to ensure everyone in the country has the choice to travel under their own steam. I hope I can count on your support in telling your local representatives that this is the kind of world we want to build.”
David Gent, chief executive of Active Humber, followed as one such voice. He said: “If physical activity were prescribed, it would be considered a miracle drug. The argument for physical activity is wide ranging and can protect us against a wide range of illnesses.”
Marketing Humber has launched a year-long programme, and a strong turn-out of more than 100 attendees came to the theatre to catch up, network, and learn
Chair Bill Walker said: “It is great to be back, thank you to our Bondholders for their support and encouragement over the last two difficult years. We’re looking forward to working together as we continue to put Hull and the Humber on the map.
“Culture touches all our lives in ways that last a lifetime, here’s to the next 50 years of Hull Truck Theatre.”
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