The Quays and Sticky Fingers scoop

Allianz Arts & Business NI Young People Award

The Quays in Newry and Sticky Fingers Early Year Art partnership lifted the Allianz Arts & Business NI Young People Award emphasising the importance placed on a sustained level of investment in the creative development of young people, as part of community development and corporate social responsibility.

Together the partners identified ways in which The Quays’ staff could share expertise and provide practical support and from a vacant retail unit within the centre, the Little Black Box Theatre was born: a space that now, post-Festival, is being used by other arts organisations.

The Quays’ PR capacity significantly raised the profile of children’s arts events, allowing Sticky Fingers to engage a new audience for the festival, attracting over 8,500 children - many of whom had not previously attended theatre or arts events.

Speaking about the success of the partnership Cathal Austin,

Centre Manager at The Quays, said:

“The Quays Shopping Centre in Newry is committed to the greater Newry and Mourne area and is at the heart of the local community. This involves working on a range of projects to encourage creative thinking, economic prosperity for the region and sustainable development. Sticky Fingers is an excellent example of an organisation that strives to achieve these aims. We were delighted to offer our support.”

Young People Award

In recognition of a partnership that has harnessed the power of the arts to engage young people. The winning business will demonstrate a dynamic connection with young people through the arts.

Highly Commended

CRAFT Training and The Alley Arts Centre

Northern Bank and Cahoots NI

Winner

The Quays and Sticky Fingers