Royal Opera House ends sponsorship relationship with BP after 33 years

An MP has questioned whether Arts Council England can be ‘taken seriously’ in terms of levelling up when it spends so much on the Royal Opera House in London compared with regional institutions (Ian West/PA) (PA Archive)
An MP has questioned whether Arts Council England can be ‘taken seriously’ in terms of levelling up when it spends so much on the Royal Opera House in London compared with regional institutions (Ian West/PA) (PA Archive)

The Royal Opera House has confirmed it has ended its sponsorship relationship with BP after more than three decades.

A spokesman for the venue in London’s Covent Garden said: “We are grateful to BP for their sponsorship over 33 years which has enabled thousands around the country to see free opera and ballet through our BP Big Screens.

“Over the past three years, BP’s support has focused on sustainability initiatives, supporting the Royal Opera House’s recovery post-pandemic and supporting our drive towards net zero.

“We would like to thank BP for their support, but agreed that the partnership would not extend beyond December 2022, when BP’s contract came to an end.”

More to follow.