Oxford's Pegasus Theatre has received a £2,000 funding boost

The money was donated by Dominvs Group, a property development and investment group, which pledged the money to help the theatre support its Looking Forward and Acting Out projects.

£500 of the donation will also be put towards the theatre’s Big Give Christmas Challenge, a national matched funding campaign taking place 30 November to 7 December which will also raise funds for the projects.

Jo Osborne, Development Director at Pegasus Theatre, said: “Pegasus is delighted that the Dominvs Group has decided to support our Looking Forward and Acting Out projects. These long-standing projects are central to our mission of providing creative opportunities for young people from all backgrounds and placing their voices and ideas at the heart of the creative process.

“For the young people involved in these projects, Pegasus is often not just a place of creativity but also a place of respite and refuge. After the huge challenges of the past 18 months, these projects and the in-depth support they offer, are more important than ever.”

Young people undertaking their acting diploma at Pegasus Theatre (Geraint Lewis)

The property group, which owns and operates the Courtyard hotel in Oxford city centre, has made the donation as part of its work to support local causes in the communities it works in after the pandemic.

The donation comes following a challenging 18 months for non-profit arts organisations across the country after having to close physical events and shows in line with social restrictions.

Preet Ahluwalia, Senior Director of Dominvs Group, said: “Through various initiatives across the city, Pegasus are making a direct impact on the lives of many young people in Oxford.

“We are all aware of the tough time the arts sector has had over the last 18 months, so we are delighted to contribute to the fantastic work of Pegasus Theatre.

“At such a challenging time, projects like this are essential in giving youngsters the confidence and life skills they need to succeed and doing so in a caring, supportive environment alongside their peers.”

Children taking part in a street dance class at Pegasus Theatre (Anna Sturrock)

Pegasus Theatre has been at the heart of Oxford’s cultural scene for over 50 years, and as well as hosting events throughout the year, it runs several drama-focussed projects for disadvantaged young people in the city.

The charitable arm of Domivs Group – Dominvs In Action – supports charities, non-profits and community projects across the UK that seek to empower younger adults and students from disadvantaged backgrounds.