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Partnership Success

For the second year running, A-Plan Insurance in Winchester supported Hat Fair’s Sunday festivities at North Walls Recreation Ground. A-Plan Insurance are long-standing corporate supporters of both Theatre Royal Winchester and Hat Fair and we are delighted that they will continue their support as Corporate Partners of Play to the Crowd.

“A-Plan Insurance in Winchester continue to be proudly associated with the Hat Fair, it allows us to engage with local people at a brilliant family-friendly event. Our business is all about talking to clients and potential clients, so being able to do this in conjunction with Hat Fair is perfect.”

Ian Tuffrey, A-Plan Insurance Winchester Branch Manager

Ian Tuffrey, A-Plan Insurance Winchester Branch Manager also commented: “Local is at the heart of everything we do at A-Plan Insurance so it was only natural to lend our support to such a diverse event that offers something for all ages in the Winchester community and beyond. We are looking forward to Hat Fair 2020.”

Hat Fair is a free festival for everyone to enjoy. However, it is far from free to put on! We gratefully receive funding from Arts Council England, Winchester City Council and Without Walls, however there is a significant shortfall each year that we need to raise to ensure the festival goes ahead. Our corporate partnerships and donations go a long way to keeping Hat Fair free, for everyone.

A man wearing multicoloured flags on his back, leading a parade.

“We are incredibly grateful to A-Plan Insurance for this partnership. We very much look forward to continuing our work with them.”

- Deryck Newland, Play to the Crowd Chief Executive

Hat Fair 2019 was the second year that the North Walls Recreation Ground hosted our Sunday programme. This space provides the festival with a great opportunity to expand the type of acts we can present due to the flatter terrain, providing greater access for those artists and audience members with restricted mobility and, due to the size of the space, it means that a larger audience can enjoy the day. 

Three dancers performing outside holding cups and saucers

“It’s fantastic to have the support of A-Plan Insurance for three years. This has allowed us to grow the partnership – their support is vital.”

- Andrew Loretto, Hat Fair Director