If there is one place that Island of Culture 2014 can rightly describe as ‘home’ throughout the year of celebrations, it’s the Empress Hotel.
An Island of Culture financial partner, the Empress has played a central role throughout 2014, serving as ‘Island of Culture HQ’, green room, impromptu office and also ‘home’ for many visiting artists and directors, not least those involved in the epic Manx Passion production.
The hotel’s general manager Brian Keenan has been a constant throughout the year, welcoming cast and crew members, musicians, directors and VIP guests and overseeing the high standard of hospitality for which the Empress has long been recognised.
He said: ‘As a Manxman and keen theatre-goer it’s been a delight to have been so closely involved with Island of Culture from day one. For the Empress to have been part of what’s been a runaway success has been a genuine privilege.
‘Island of Culture has done much to promote the Island in a positive light beyond these shores; it’s an approach that mirrors what we do at the Empress and it was for that reason we have been pleased to contribute to the celebrations as financial partner.’
Island of Culture events director Michael Lees said: ‘This year has been a triumph, but it’s not been without its challenges and trials. On the good days, and even on the not-so-good days, all of us - cast members especially - valued the opportunity to be able to retreat to the Empress and discuss the day’s events in calm and comfortable surroundings. And of course the hotel’s also been the setting for much celebration.
‘As with Island of Culture, the Empress is all about creating a memorable experience. Brian and his team have been unfailingly supportive throughout the year and the Empress has fulfilled its role as financial partner magnificently.’
