Theatre launches campaign to realise major revamp plans

Derby Theatre has launched a drive to raise further cash after receiving £10 million of Levelling Up Fund money to develop the venue.

The cash the theatre has been awarded by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities had originally been earmarked for a new learning theatre called ‘Assemble’ at the Assembly Rooms.

However, after the scheme was deemed unviable, the Government agreed that the £20 million it awarded for Assemble could be divided equally between revamping the existing Derby Theatre and Guildhall Theatre.

Now, Derby Theatre, which is based in Derbion, has revealed major plans to refurbish the venue – and enhance its facilities, including the addition of a brand-new studio theatre.

However, the overall cost of the redevelopment will need additional investment. To raise that extra cash, it has launched a campaign called Derby Theatre: New Horizons.

Sarah Brigham, chief executive and artistic director at Derby Theatre, said: “Derby Theatre is approaching its 50th birthday in 2025. This funding will allow us to secure the next 50 years of high-quality theatre in our city.”

Professor Kathryn Mitchell, vice-chancellor of the University of Derby and chair of Derby Theatre Board of Trustees, said: “Derby Theatre plays a pivotal role in our city, and we are delighted that the Levelling Up funding of £10 million, secured by the city partnership and awarded to the theatre, will enable it to remain in its current home in the Derbion.”

Derby Theatre has said it plans to use its Levelling Up funding to develop its performance, community, participation and learning spaces.

As well as the new studio theatre, which will be a versatile space for the theatre to present innovative work, there would be an improved space for learners and the community, plus improvements to the audience experience in the main auditorium.

Sarah said: “We welcome nearly 100,000 people a year through our doors to see shows and 25,000 to take part in workshops and learning activity, so we are delighted that we will be able to use this funding to offer an even better experience to our customers and encourage more people to visit us for the first time.”

Professor Mitchell said: “The theatre has a long-standing reputation of being a leading professional producing and learning theatre, and the funding will support the refurbishment and development of the theatre’s facilities, helping to continue to enhance Derby’s cultural offering.

“Our commitment to supporting the regeneration and long-term prosperity of the city, as well as developing its creative and cultural ecology, is part of our civic ambitions, and we look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with Derby Theatre and Derby City Council as the plans develop.”

As well as announcing plans for the revamp, Derby Theatre has also revealed details of its New Horizons campaign, which aims to generate support and additional funds for the project.

The campaign will look to reach out to local communities, audiences, businesses, friends and stakeholders from the region.

To find out more about the New Horizons campaign and make a donation visit https://derbytheatre.co.uk/support-our-work/derby-theatre-new-horizons/.

To find out more about the different ways you can support the theatre, contact executive director Iain Hayes or head of development Laura Winson at NewHorizons@derbytheatre.co.uk.