The beloved Polka Theatre, a world-class theatre for children is planning a major renovation; this will be the first major improvement to the building since it opened its doors in 1979 on The Broadway Wimbledon.
The Arts Council England approved the first stage of Polka Theatre’s application for a grant of £2.5m towards the proposed £5.1m cost of redeveloping the premises. The main proposals include, the creation of a National Centre for Early Years Theatre, incorporating a new auditorium for children under 6 and a multipurpose rehearsal space, and a new Creative Learning Studio.
Currently, the Polka Theatre is one of the very few venues in the UK which is devoted to producing and presenting work for young audiences. Now over 90,000 children a year come to the Polka, inspired and truly engaged by the theatre world.
The Polka Theatre’s Artistic Director and Chief Executive, Peter Glanville, said: “We are thrilled to have stage one of our Arts Council grant approved for our proposed theatre redevelopment.
“As well as a vote of confidence in Polka, it is wonderful to have this further recognition of the importance of investing in the arts, artists and venues dedicated to children.”
Learn more about this redevelopment and how it will benefit future generations by attending the sessions below.
When: Thursday 5 September 2016, 6pm – 9pm (drop-in) and Saturday 17 September, 1pm – 5pm (drop-in and panel discussion at 3pm)
Where: Holy Trinity Church, 234 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB
Twitter: @polkatheatre
Facebook: @polkatheatre
