Arts organisations in competition to secure new royal patrons

Following the death of Queen Elizabeth, more than 50 arts organisations of which she was the patron are poised to enter a quiet competition to secure a royal replacement.

Institutions across the sector will be hoping to acquire a member of the immediate royal family as patron, ensuring that any new regal connection is internationally recognised. 

“Institutions are very keen to secure the right patron,” Tim Marlow, Chief Executive of the Design Museum and former Artistic Director at the Royal Academy of Arts, told the Guardian.

“It matters hugely and creates many more funding opportunities, both nationally and abroad.”

The Queen handed on several of her patronages six years ago, when she turned 90, but many more need to be reallocated after her death. 

Arts institutions waiting to hear about a new patron include Art Fund, RADA, the Royal Shakespeare Company, the Royal Academy, Royal Philharmonic Society, Help Musicians UK, Royal Northern College of Music and the London Symphony Orchestra, of which the Queen became patron when she ascended the throne in 1952.

A spokesperson for the orchestra said the Queen’s patronage had been “immensely helpful in our relationships with our overseas promoters and audiences”.

King Charles III is expected to continue as patron of organisations including the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, but will not be able to take on all his late mother’s roles.