Partington Theatre today announced a new proposal to purchase the adjoining former NatWest Bank building in the heart of Glossop, with plans to merge the two spaces into one centrally located performing arts hub. This new project will give the greater Glossopdale community a state-of-the-art accessible theatre and multi-function arts space to fit the town’s growing needs.

In addition to improving the existing main stage auditorium, expansion plans include a new rehearsal space and black box theatre, a recording room for musicians, and a cafe with exhibition space for local artists.

Plans will also allow the Partington to offer more services and events to the public including youth and adult dramatic practice, film nights, and live music, while continuing to provide a beautiful venue for weddings, parties, and other community events.

This proposal also addresses the lack of accessible facilities in the historic Grade II listed theatre, which has been a prohibitive factor in serving the wider population.

Mark McDonough, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, said:

“Purchasing this building would see our little theatre expand with more community space, rehearsal and storage areas, and most importantly make the theatre truly accessible to all. This is a very exciting opportunity which would make a huge difference to not just the theatre and its patrons, but to the entire Glossop community.”

Glossop is home to a wealth of creative talent, from actors to artists and singers to set builders, and with the increase of housing there is also a growing population who do not wish to travel further afield or pay city prices for their entertainment.

This expansion project offers a unique venue on their doorstep. It will support the development of the Town Hall and Victoria Arts Centre, along with the existing small performance venues across the area.

The theatre’s local partnerships are strong. However, building additional support at this stage is critical to seeing this vision come to life.

Partington Theatre asks the people of Glossopdale to join them in:

• upcoming fundraising efforts to help fund the purchase of the bank building and
• creating this much needed local arts resource.