The Wolfson Foundation is working with Theatres Trust to improve the sustainability of theatres across the country through the Theatre Improvement Scheme.
We have awarded grants totalling £120,000 to support eight theatres on their journey to reducing the environmental impact of their buildings.
With an £11,000 grant, The Roses Theatre in Tewkesbury will implement a variety of quick adaptations, from insulating pipes to installing smart controls and auto-off sensors. This is an example of how small measures can collectively make a big impact in reducing a building’s energy and water consumption.
Other projects funded in this round include installing secondary glazing at Oxford Playhouse, fitting additional solar panels at The Courtyard in Hereford and replacing inefficient building management services and heating systems at Wilton’s Music Hall in London and The Customs House in South Shields.
Dundee Repertory Theatre, The Lyceum in Edinburgh and Theatre Royal Winchester all receive funding to upgrade lighting to energy efficient LEDs across different parts of their buildings.
Theatre Improvement Scheme now open
In 2021, we renewed our funding for the Theatre Improvement Scheme for a further three years. Grants of up to £20,000 are available to help theatres to reduce the environmental impact of their buildings.
The next round of the scheme is now open. The deadline for applications is 6 September 2022. Find out more about the Theatre Improvement Scheme.
Paul Ramsbottom, chief executive of the Wolfson Foundation said, ‘The projects we have funded with Theatres Trust are excellent examples of practical changes that can improve the environmental and financial sustainability of theatres across the country. We are delighted to continue our partnership with Theatres Trust to support theatres to respond to the challenges of the climate crisis.’
Jon Morgan, Director of Theatres Trust commented, ‘Working with the Wolfson Foundation we continue our focus on the long-term environmental sustainability of theatres, a major priority for the sector. The challenge of taking a theatre and making it fit for purpose in the context of the climate emergency is huge but these projects represent the type of small, practical and impactful projects every size and age of theatre should consider on the path to sustainability.’
The theatres awarded grants in this round are:
- Dundee Repertory Theatre – £16,940
- Oxford Playhouse – £20,000
- The Lyceum, Edinburgh – £20,000
- The Courtyard, Hereford – £12,126
- The Customs House, South Shields – £16,520
- The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury – £11,219
- Theatre Royal Winchester – £20,000
- Wilton’s Music Hall, London – £3,195.
