Nottingham Playhouse receive almost £1million of funding

Nottingham Playhouse has received a welcome cash boost of almost £1million which theatre bosses will make it more efficient for the future.

Arts Council England has given the theatre, which this year celebrates its 50th anniversary, a grant of £996,000 to make it sustainable for the future.

Stephanie Sirr, chief executive of the Playhouse, said: “These funds will increase opportunities for performance and participation in a welcoming, sustainable and creative setting.

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“We are grateful to all our supporters and in particular to Sir Harry Djanogly who has made a generous donation to the appeal.”

The Grade II-listed building, which dates back to 1963, is very expensive to heat and light - and this funding will make it more efficient for the future.

Peter Knott, area director of Arts Council England, said: “We are working hard with organisations in the cultural sector to increase their sustainability both financially and ecologically.

“This award does both and will enable Nottingham Playhouse to ensure that their building is energy efficient and making the best of use of space available.

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“This project demonstrates the theatre’s commitment to finding more environmentally efficient ways of doing business, whilst creating the best value-for-money possible.”

Bosses at the theatre also say that the grant will allow them to spend more money on home-grown productions. However, they still need to raise a further £75,000 for essential work such as installing solar panels.

Stephanie added: “The ethos of Nottingham Playhouse is that we are a theatre for everyone.

“Our local community is at the heart of everything we do. We need to create a legacy for our future generations of Playhouse visitors. And with a theatre that is fit for purpose, we can concentrate our efforts, energy and resources on providing quality performances for them.”

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Nick Lawford, fundraising and development manager, said: “We have six months to raise the further £75,000 needed to carry out all our vital work. In this time if every visitor donated just £1, this could be achieved.”

For details on how to get involved call (0115) 873 6235 or email [email protected].