Published on 3rd June 2025

Cheltenham Playhouse entrance, sign, building

Council provides immediate grant, greatly advancing theatre’s emergency campaign. Calls for wider support to secure venue’s future.

Following the Cheltenham Playhouse announcement of an urgent fundraising campaign to safeguard its future, the council has stepped in with a £25k grant to support the immediate financial pressures of this treasured community venue.

In the absence of any fixed funding, and with growing pressures and increasing costs, new theatre trustees have developed a long-term masterplan. However, it needs financial support, now, to keep the doors open. The goal of raising an initial £50k by the end of June has now been greatly aided, thanks to the quick response from the borough council.

Councillor Izaac Tailford, cabinet member for economic development, wellbeing, culture, and public realm at Cheltenham Borough Council said:  “We had to be quick to respond. For a long time, The Cheltenham Playhouse has delivered huge amounts of value to our local community, enabling people to have a place on the stage, behind the scenes, or as part of the audience. As well as hard-working staff, it also has a huge team of volunteers. The work of the Playhouse makes the world of art inclusive and accessible. It’s only right that we come together and do all we can to ensure the theatre has the funding in place to continue now and long term, for the benefit of our future generations.

“As well as this immediate funding boost, we will be working closely with the Playhouse to do what we can to support them in other ways going forward. If any Cheltenham residents feel able to back their fundraiser, or offer longer term support such as volunteering, please do get involved.”

Nestled in Cheltenham town centre, with its stunning regency architecture, the 180 seat theatre is now in its 80th year.  As popular as ever, its ‘what’s on guide’ is packed full of music, drama, film and comedy events, as well as pantomimes.  The Grade II-listed building, which is owned by the borough council, has a fascinating heritage, with the oldest parts dating back to 1806. The former swimming baths still exist underneath the auditorium, offering an incredible glimpse into how the building was enjoyed by people many years ago.

"We are so grateful to the borough council for its support," explained Neil Burge, acting chair, Board of Trustees at Cheltenham Playhouse. "This grant has changed the outlook of our emergency fundraising and our first milestone is within reach, allowing us to think more positively. Along with the incredible donations we have seen from our community, this figure allows us to plan for a brighter future as we move to the second phase of our fundraising."

The Cheltenham Playhouse now sets its sights on the second milestone of raising £100k before the end of 2025.  Donate to the urgent appeal by visiting the Just Giving page.

 

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