£19.9 million to transform Malvern Theatres (Levelling Up Fund 2)

The completion of Studio One

The Malvern Theatres is a well-known centre for arts in the UK and the theatre building has been a part of the community since 1884. Levelling Up funding will support a range of improvements to the building that will allow the theatre to expand its participatory work and showcase a wider range of performances.

The first stage of the project was completed in July 2023 which saw the addition of a 310 square metre extension.

The new first floor extension creates a fully accessible performance space whilst the new entrance is enhanced with an improved, landscaped public space.

The new performance space is equipped to a high standard allowing the theatre to further deliver a wide range of productions, as well as giving more a flexible space for educational and community use.

Nic Lloyd, Former Chief Executive at Malvern Theatres, said:

The completion of Studio One promises huge benefits to the people of the Malvern Hills area and beyond. The new studio comprises a rehearsal space, performance space and cinema as well as a venue for our full programme of regular classes and workshops. I’m grateful for the investment in this important project, which has the potential to provide life-changing participation opportunities for people of all ages and abilities in our community”.

The addition will enable the theatre to increase its number of workshop places from around 2,500 to 14,500 per year, with regular weekly classes in dance, movement, drama, music, acting and film-making all part of the initial programme from September.

Disabled access to the theatre from the Grange Road entrance has also been improved, as well as the installation of a new Changing Places facility in the theatre.