Stafford Gatehouse Theatre
With more than 120,000 visitors each year, the Gatehouse Theatre is the cultural centrepiece of Staffordshire’s county town.
We have two performance spaces – a 535-capacity auditorium and a 140-capacity studio – and attract major touring shows, musicians, bands and big name comedians (recent shows by Jason Manford, Chris McCausland, Sarah Millican, etc).
We have digital, physical and online marketing opportunities, aligned to a loyal audience across multiple demographics and a burgeoning online presence.
We are part of a non-profit making group with strong community ties, including a thriving Youth Theatre.
The Gatehouse Theatre enjoys a high profile in central Staffordshire and beyond and is regarded as ‘one of the best regional theatres in England’.
Target Audience
Families of all ages, across a wide demographic. Last year’s pantomime run had to be extended and attracted a record 18,800 customers. This year, we are aiming even higher with a show produced by the prestigious panto specialists Imagine Theatre. There will be a large number of schoolchildren in the audience and all our dedicated Schools Performances have already sold out.
Key Dates and Timings
Sleeping Beauty, December 5, 2025 to January 4, 2026.
Specific Opportunity Details
We are looking for a sponsor for our annual pantomime, which is SLEEPING BEAUTY this Christmas, starring BAFTA-winning TV presenter Mark Rhodes (December 5 to January 4).
We are expecting an audience of more than 19,000 from the central and south Staffordshire area for an event that has previously attracted local and national TV exposure, as well as regular radio features, blogs, online content and reviews on local and national theatre websites.
Features and Benefits
Sponsors will feature on all our artwork for the show, as well as having wider exposure to our 120,000-strong database, social media followings, monthly podcast, print posters, flyers and more, as well as tickets to the show and a VIP experience at the Gatehouse. (We’ll even write a joke in the script for you – oh yes we will!)
They will also have the opportunity to advertise on our eight Front of House digital screens, as well as totems in key sites around Stafford (busy footfall areas, hospital, etc). Sponsors will also be able to display goods and flyers at the theatre, meet the cast and crew and attend the Gala Performance, attended by local dignitaries such as the Mayor, MP, etc.
Other Partners
Previous sponsors have included the University of Staffordshire, Wolverhampton University, Virgin Trains, Carthy Accountants, Stafford Grammar School, Superbowl UK, Freedom Leisure, Stafford Borough Council, Historic Stafford, Marston’s.
Investment
£10,000 cash investment (open to discussion).
Other Info
This is an excellent opportunity to engage with a family audience across a wide range of demographics across multiple platforms with a loyal audience already in place at a highly respected venue.