Hennepin Theatre Trust Partners with Jack Link's for New Lounge Space

Hennepin Theatre Trust announced today a new partnership with Jack Link's Protein Snacks. The partnership includes the build-out and naming rights to an entertainment lounge and event space located at 900 Hennepin Ave., adjacent to the Trust's historic Orpheum Theatre.

The new space will be a destination for guests to meet up before and after theater events for light refreshments and snacks, including Jack Link's inspired food and drink menu items to enhance the theatre-going experience.

"The support of Jack Link's is essential to establishing the Trust as a performing arts center that is recognized as a national leader in the industry," said Mark Nerenhausen, president and CEO of Hennepin Theatre Trust. "This opportunity enables us to not only continue our mission of creating positive change through the arts on Hennepin Avenue but also to engage our guests directly in a new and personal way."

The event space will occupy a portion of the first floor of 900 Hennepin and open later next year to the public. It will be a distinctive space for guests to get together before and after shows with food and beverages, including items from the Jack Link's culinary menu.

"Jack Link's has been part of the Minneapolis community for the last eight years and the city continues to be a growing hub for our employees and our company. We are thrilled to support organizations like the Hennepin Theatre Trust and their efforts to help downtown flourish through arts and entertainment," said TD Dixon, CMO of Jack Link's. "We're proud to be part of the downtown Minneapolis community and look forward to seeing theater-goers feed their wild sides."

"Jack Link's presence in the downtown community is helping the city continue to thrive- from their new headquarters in Mayo Clinic Square and the new Jack Link's Wild Side retail store to this great partnership with Hennepin Theater Trust," said Steve Cramer, president and Chief Executive Office of the mpls downtown council and Mpls Downtown Improvement District.. "Partnerships between businesses and the arts community are important to all communities and am thrilled to see Jack Link's joined forces with an organization such as Hennepin Theater Trust that brings so much to our local arts and theater."

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

Every year, the Trust attracts 600,000 visitors 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.

Spotlight Education, the Trust's flagship education program, 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.

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 historic theatres - the Orpheum, State and Pantages - and our unique arts, culture and education programs. Learn more at HennepinTheatreTrust.org.

Jack Link's- Feed Your Wild Side Jack Link's is a global leader in protein snacks and the No. 1 meat snack manufacturer worldwide. Headquartered in Minong, Wis., Jack Link's is a family-owned company that represents a heritage of quality and consumer trust, with the mission to Feed Your Wild Side. Jack Link's offers more than 100 premium protein snacks in a variety of flavors, sizes and price points, appealing to nearly every consumer and occasion. Check out JackLinks.com for more information on the brand.

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