PNC Bank, Hennepin Theatre Trust Announce New Partnership

Hennepin Theatre Trust announced today a new partnership with PNC Bank. The partnership includes the build out and naming of a new PNC lounge that delivers a premier guest experience at 900 Hennepin Ave., adjacent to the Trust's historic Orpheum Theatre. This is PNC's first major arts partnership in the Twin Cities.

"The support of PNC Bank is critical to achieving the Trust's mission and providing Minneapolis and surrounding areas with the resources to best serve our community," said Mark Nerenhausen, president/CEO of Hennepin Theatre Trust. "This opportunity will help us continue our mission of creating positive change through the arts with a variety of programming and events, community engagement and education programs."

The new lounge will take up a portion of the first floor of 900 Hennepin and will open later next year. It will be a special, one-of-a-kind gathering space in the Twin Cities used to entertain guests before, during and after shows.

"We understand that a rich arts community is a significant driver of our economic success, providing employment, boosting tourism and making the region attractive for businesses, residents and visitors," said Kate Kelly, PNC regional president for the Twin Cities. "Hennepin Theatre Trust is one of the great cultural resources across Minnesota and we look forward to building a long-standing relationship."

The Trust purchased the building, located at 900 Hennepin Ave., last year. It has since moved its offices into the building and provides some limited programming.

"The partnership of the business and arts community downtown is an important element in maintaining a thriving and vibrant core. Hennepin Theatre Trust is a key actor bringing these worlds together," said Steve Cramer, president and Chief Executive Office of the mpls downtown council and Mpls Downtown Improvement District. "Their work bringing nationally-acclaimed shows to Hennepin Avenue theatres, placing a spotlight on the local arts community through programs like 'Made Here,' and maybe most importantly innovative place making to promote vitality and safety align perfectly with the mpls downtown council's vision and mission."

Hennepin Theatre Trust is a nonprofit organization that creates positive change through the arts by bringing together people, businesses and organizations in WeDo, the West Downtown MPLS Cultural District, to create and enjoy cultural experiences.

The Trust attracts 600,000 visitors annually to a range of its cultural offerings. These include the best of touring Broadway productions and world-class entertainment events and concerts in three historic theatres - the Orpheum, State and Pantages.

The Trust's flagship education program, Spotlight Education, engages more than 5,000 Minnesota high school students in the performing arts throughout the state in nearly 90 high schools. Students enrolled in their high school musical theatre programs receive professional training and guidance to enhance their artistic, technical and performing skills.

With its significant presence on Hennepin Avenue, the Trust is able to connect people to unexpected arts and cultural experiences. Made Here brings local art to underused spaces, and the Trust's unique partnerships with downtown businesses enables it to bring small- and large-scaled art to the street experience. Included in the Trust's portfolio is the now-iconic mural of Bob Dylan and the 5 to 10 on Hennepin project, which turned sidewalks and parking lots into community gathering spaces and attracted national funding and recognition.

For more information about becoming a donor or corporate member, to purchase tickets, or to learn about volunteer and partnership opportunities with the Trust, visit HennepinTheatreTrust.org.

PNC Bank, National Association, is a member of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC). PNC is one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the United States, organized around its customers and communities for strong relationships and local delivery of retail and business banking including a full range of lending products; specialized services for corporations and government entities, including corporate banking, real estate finance and asset-based lending; wealth management and asset management. For information about PNC, visit www.pnc.com.

Hennepin Theatre Trust is a nonprofit organization that creates positive change through the arts by bringing together people, businesses and organizations in WeDo, the West Downtown MPLS Cultural District. We serve the community through our three theatres - the Orpheum, State and Pantages - and our unique arts, culture and education programs. Learn more at HennepinTheatreTrust.org.

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