Our Corporate Partners will play a pivotal role in securing 12-13 Shaftesbury Square, a substantial capital project that will contribute significantly to the cultural regeneration of the city.
In 2017, inspired by Place de la République in Paris—a public space where art is woven into everyday life and belongs to everyone—Accidental Theatre moved into 12-13 Shaftesbury Square, a three-storey neo-Georgian brown brick building with a basement and attic in the heart of South Belfast.
From vacant to vibrant, we transformed this space into a 100-seat theatre, shared workspaces, rehearsal rooms, meeting areas, and a digital and broadcasting hub. Every penny we generate is reinvested into the building, providing vital support for artists from all backgrounds to help them build sustainable careers. This commitment has created a welcoming and inclusive space for all, ensuring the venue reflects and supports a modern, thriving city of diverse voices.
In late 2024, as part of our commitment to securing this artistic venue for the city, we applied for and were awarded funding from the Community Ownership Fund (Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government) to help purchase 12-13 Shaftesbury Square. Once the purchase is complete, we will begin the building’s restoration, transforming it into a modern and elegant performance venue, with extended floor space (ground and upper levels), an industry-leading recording studio, and a gallery café.
We have achieved so much with so little over the years. Now, we are turning to those who have the means to help—to ensure art and culture continue to thrive in Belfast, are valued, and remain accessible for future generations.
With your help, you will play a significant role in the securing and development of this institution. By contributing to the Saving Accidental Theatre Match COF Fund. You will—
Be part of the movement to ensure that the next generation of artists are not lost. Making your city a more culturally enriching place to be and to visit.
Play a pivotal role in sustaining a cultural institution that will not only enrich the local community, but which will play a huge role in promoting an inclusive, contemporary Belfast of many voices and diversities
Help regenerate the once Golden Mile— with decades of decline it is now one of the most densely populated wards in NI with the highest wage disparity and disadvantage in the city (NISRA)—by restoring 12-13 Shaftesbury Square, a key location at its heart.
Partners may donate at the following levels:
PINNACLE
>£5,000
CORNERSTONE
>£10,000
KEYSTONE
>£20,000
MILESTONE
>£50,000
Special recognition opportunities for Corporate Partners include:
Brand recognition permanently linking your organisation to key spaces including the performance space and the Gallery Café.
A permanent association with a cultural and civic destination of international importance.
Corporate hospitality opportunities at 12-13 Shaftesbury Square
Publicity via press media, publications and promotion.
Opportunities to hire specific areas of 12-13 Shaftesbury Square for meetings and events.
Bespoke Writers-in-your-Workplace packages, offering your employees on-site creative and enjoyable workshops with artists.
Opportunities to support key artistic programmes in the future.
Tax relief on donations
We'd love to show you around the space and to discuss our plans in more details. If you'd like to get in touch, please contact our Artistic Director here.
“Accidental has helped me achieve growth in my career.”
“Accidental has been a lifeline to me.”
“Accidental really helped me get my work out there and beyond the city too.”
“Accidental has given me support to reach a global audience.”
“Accidental has been an important part of the artistic and performance landscape of the city.”
“Accidental understands the incredible challenges we face here.”
“Accidental has been a source of so many first productions of new works by new and established playwrights and performers. Many have gone on to be restaged for longer runs elsewhere.”
For many respondents from diverse communities, Accidental is "a second home”. When asked, people anticipated a decline in their mental wellbeing, loneliness and isolation through the loss of community connections and friendships if Accidental were to close.
“Accidental has allowed me to connect with others and boost my self confidence in social situations, I feel part of my community now.”
“Accidental has given me an opportunity to feel part of the community.”
“A safe place to be in Belfast.”
“Every time I have been it has made me happier.”
“[Accidental’s] contribution to the cultural vibrancy and identity of Belfast [is huge], offering unique and alternative experiences that enrich the city’s cultural landscape.””
“Accidental events helps me feel part of my community.”
“I moved to Belfast in April 2023, Accidental has allowed me to meet people and start building a social life here.”