Nineteen theatres to improve accessibility and sustainability

Theatres Trust is pleased to support 19 theatres across the UK with £93k through our Small Grants Programme in partnership with The Linbury Trust.

Projects funded in this round of grants focus on improving theatres’ accessibility, sustainability, and viability, and help them expand on the good work they are already doing in these areas.

Accessibility

Addressing barriers to accessibility and supporting the diversification of its programmes, Rich Mix in the East End of London will install a new infrared hearing system in its Studio Theatre. Beccles Public Hall and Questors Theatre will install accessibility equipment in their auditoria to better support their audiences. Marine Theatre Lyme Regis and The Chipping Norton Theatre will improve toilet and washroom facilities backstage for disabled performers, creatives, and staff.

Sustainability

Sheringham Little Theatre is refitting its volunteer-run café to make it more accessible and environmentally sustainable. A range of sustainability projects at Eden Court Theatre, Lemon Tree Aberdeen, Oxford Playhouse, Soho Theatre, and The Players Theatre in Thame aimed at reducing energy or water use. Taunton Brewhouse, Eastgate Theatre in Peebles, Exeter Phoenix, Royal Court Theatre Bacup, and National Youth Theatre’s Workshop Theatre in London will install LED lighting across various areas of their buildings.

Viability

At Shanklin Theatre essential improvements front of house will benefit audiences. Refurbishment projects at Wardrobe Theatre and Georgian Theatre Royal will safeguard operational viability.

Download the press release.

Thanks to our funders

The Small Grants Programme was launched thanks to The Linbury Trust’s generous support and donations from Judy Craymer CBE. and Charles Michael Holloway Charitable Trust.

In February 2022, The Linbury Trust committed to £300,000 to the scheme over three years; in autumn 2022 the Mackintosh Foundation committed to £150,000 over five years.

Next round

The next round of the Small Grants Programme with The Linbury Trust is now open for applications with a deadline of noon on Friday 12 January 2024. Find out more about the scheme and how to apply.

Image: Rich Mix by Sharron Wallace