A Nottingham communications specialist is backing a drama group which has helped train stage and screen stars including Bella Ramsey, Vicky McClure, Samantha Morton and Jack O'Connell.
Cartwright Communications has picked The Television Workshop, also based in Nottingham, to receive its services on a pro bono basis, to help champion the next generation of talent.
Cartwright is offering its services to the BAFTA award-winning drama group and charity which is marking four decades in exisitence with a ‘40 years, 40 stars, 40 awards’ campaign.
The workshop has had recent success with the release of ITVX drama Without Sin, which was not only filmed in Nottingham but featured current and former members led by actress Vicky McClure – one of the workshop’s most famous alumni.
It relies on outside funding to keep it running and operates a talent-first approach – with admission based on auditions – to keep fees affordable.
Cartwright Communications will help spread the word about the workshop throughout the year helping with things such as media liaison, content creation and events organising.
Managing director Liz Cartwright said: “Part of our business strategy at Cartwright includes our commitment to charities that benefit our local communities.
“The workshop is an organisation that has put Nottingham on the map and had a far-reaching impact for decades – and we want to see that continue.
“Not only is it a fantastic local charity but it also holds a special place for many Cartwrighters that have had the pleasure of experiencing the magic of the workshop.
“By providing our PR services to the charity, we hope to help more young people nurture their talent through raising awareness of the fantastic work the group does and supporting it in raising much needed funds.”
The pandemic and Government cuts for the arts and culture sector have had a big impact on the workshop – which currently receives around 800 applications a year for around 30 places.
The Television Workshop executive artistic director Alison Rashley – who was an early member of the group – said: “We are so grateful to have the support and expertise of Cartwright Communications, as we embark on what will be a very special year for us.
“We like to say that anyone who has joined our organisation carries a piece of Workshop magic with them in everything they do – and through this collaboration, we can ensure more people get to experience that.
“Over the years we have seen countless accomplishments from our members – many have been successful in the film and television industry.
“But equally, the workshop teaches life skills that are used in all professions, from construction to medicine.
“We are immensely proud of whatever path our members choose. Ultimately, it’s about investing in our future generations.”
Cartwright Communications was ranked one of PR Week’s top agencies in the UK in 2022 – and was recently accredited as a Great Place To Work and ranked 25th out of 50 at the Inspiring Places to Work awards.
