Belden and Shakespeare - Supporting the Arts

Started in 2014, the Richmond Shakespeare Festival is an annual community-wide event that showcases Shakespearean theatrical performances and educational opportunities. The festival draws people locally and nationally with infamous plays like Hamlet, The Tempest, Macbeth and more.

Raymond Ontko, President of the Richmond Shakespeare Festival, said Belden has responded "enthusiastically, generously, and promptly" to their requests since the festival's inception in February 2014.

"We use Belden products in every aspect of our theatre," Raymond said. "What I love about this collaboration is that we are able to highlight Belden's products in this distinctive offering of our community, and in the distinctive venue in which we perform."

Belden has long been a supporter of the arts and quality of life organizations in Richmond and Wayne County, according to Global Research and Development VP Martin Van Der Burgt.

"It is a great way for Belden to support our employees and families that volunteer with Richmond Shakespeare Festival or that enjoy the event, and also a way to keep our name in front of the community for recruiting and retention purposes," Martin said.

In fact, most of the products used in the festival are manufactured locally at the Belden plant in Richmond. Martin said their support of the live arts is not only a natural part of Belden's Broadcast and A/V market, but is a great way for employees to see how their products are used by end customers.

Needless to say, you can expect Belden to continue supporting the Richmond Shakespeare Festival for years to come.