Theatres Trust has announced that composer and producer Andrew Lloyd Webber (pictured) has become a Theatres Trust Ambassador.

Andrew Lloyd Webber joins 24 other high profile Ambassadors who will work with the Theatres Trust to ensure the UK's theatres are protected and secured for future generations to enjoy. His first act as Ambassador was to provide the space for the launch of the Theatres Trust’s new Patron Scheme last night at The London Palladium.

Part of a wider fundraising drive, the new Patron Scheme will enable supporters to deepen their relationship with the Theatres Trust and its work. The Theatres Trust is increasing its fundraising to support its ambitious plans, which include providing more grants to theatres to improve accessibility, viability and sustainability, increased support for community groups campaigning for local ‘Theatres at Risk’ and providing expert advice services to more theatres.

Designed by legendary theatre architect Frank Matcham and home to the capital’s variety performances for over a century, The London Palladium was the perfect setting for the theatre advisory body’s event. Theatres Trust Trustee, presenter and comedian, Dara Ó Briain introduced the evening to an invited audience that included philanthropists, charitable trusts and foundations, and leading figures from the culture and heritage sectors, as well as Theatres Trust Ambassadors Samira Ahmed, Jo Brand and Beverley Knight.

Beverley Knight says: "My earliest memory of theatre is of Wolverhampton Grand. I had the opportunity to be on that stage from an early age because my ordinary comprehensive school understood the value of the arts and I have been lucky to play in some amazing theatres throughout my career. The thought of theatres being taken away is terrible – especially for the kids who depend on them – to work out their angst, find out who they are. They are the heart of any community. I believe in ‘paying it forward’, it is my duty to save these spaces so kids from same background as me have the same chances I had and I hope other people will get involved with the Theatres Trust and do the same.”

The event also included the first screening of a film showcasing the Theatres Trust’s work, featuring Ambassadors including Samira Ahmed, Alan Ayckbourn, Michael Ball, Pippa Bennett-Warner, Alexandra Burke, Jack Dee, Lenny Henry, Kwame Kwei-Armah, David Morrissey and Siobhan Redmond.