The Hub lifts the curtain on its first patron!

22/09/2009

Lesley Manville - Patron of the Hub Theatre

Central Sussex College is delighted to announce that the British actress, Lesley Manville, has become the first patron of The Hub theatre, at its Haywards Heath campus.

Lesley, who has been in the industry for over three decades and is best known for her work on stage, appearing in plays at the RSC, Royal Court Theatre and most recently at the Royal National Theatre as the lead role in their production of 'Her Naked Skin'. Well known for her acting collaborations with Mike Leigh, which began in 1980 with the BBC play 'Grown-ups', Lesley is currently working on a new film with the Oscar nominated writer and director.

Jonathan Goodwin, Subject Leader for Theatre at the College's Sixth Form campus and Artistic Director for the Hub, commented, "We are honoured that Lesley has agreed to be our patron. She is one of the most respected actresses in the industry and our students are so lucky to have someone of her calibre supporting, advising and inspiring them."

Lesley commented, "The Hub provides such a wonderful foundation for serious drama students. It's like a mini drama school. It shapes young people into serious, focused and committed young professionals.

"My son, Alfie, has just completed the two year BTEC Performing Arts course at the College, and it was the best two years of his life. The quality of work they produce is off the scale and I am proud to be named as the Theatre's first patron."