A MAJOR player in the transformation of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre has been honoured with a CBE.
David Burbidge was was recognised for services to cultural philanthropy in the West Midlands, and received his award from Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace.
Until recently he was a main board member of the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) and was the chairman of the Central Campaign for the £113million transformation of the RSC theatres at Stratford.
More recently he has been the champion for the £4.5million campaign for restoration of the Swan Wing at the theatre.
Mr Burbidge, current chairman of the Coventry City of Culture Trust, is hoping to see the city named UK City of Culture 2021 when the decision is announced in the New Year.
Mr Burbidge, who is a Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands, said: “It was a very proud and humbling occasion. I never expected the CBE. I have simply tried to do as much as I can to help causes close to my heart that I believe are hugely beneficial to the well-being of the area. Mr Burbidge is the chairman of Burbidge and Son Ltd, a family-owned company which celebrates its 150th anniversary next year and manufactures kitchen and bathroom furniture at two factories in Coventry. He chaired the Belgrade Theatre board for seven years and led the £14million project to build the new B2 auditorium and remodelling the whole building.
He is also the founding Chairman of the Coventry Cathedral Development Trust, which raised more than £5million for the Cathedral ministry and for endowment. He is a significant philanthropist predominantly in the arts and culture sector.
