The Hallé’s new rehearsal, recording and education venue, Hallé St Peter’s, has gained a campaign patron. Actor and director Sir Kenneth Branagh, who starred recently in the Manchester International Festival’s production of Macbeth – the first time Hallé St Peter’s had been used as a small theatre space – has agreed to continue his relationship with the venue as the second phase of development begins.

Hallé St Peter’s, situated in Ancoats, Manchester, opened in June 2013 following a fundraising campaign for its refurbishment from private sources. Planning permission has now been granted for phase two, which involves building an extension for the Hallé’s ensembles, community education work, offices and workshops on the land adjoining the venue.

‘I am thrilled to have discovered Hallé St Peter’s, a hidden gem which has been lovingly restored into a permanent home for the orchestra, its ensembles and education department,’ said Branagh. ‘I am fully in support of the next phase of the project, which will give the Hallé much needed versatility and allow them to engage even more with the community and carry out a greater breadth of work’.
 
‘We are delighted that Kenneth enjoyed his time working in Hallé St Peter’s and has offered his support to phase two,’ added Kath Russell, Hallé development director. ‘His help is greatly appreciated for what will be a challenging but we hope rewarding fundraising campaign.’