We caught up with Leo Capernaros for an update on the work going on at Stone’s new theatre venue.
We’re quite sure a lot of you have been wondering what’s going on with the theatre! Having been due to open in October 2023, we got the difficult news about a delay last summer. Some complicating factors meant we were unable to install our heating, ventilation and cooling system as planned, a vital aspect of making the space comfortable and safe.
Whilst waiting for things to get sorted, we decided to use this unexpected time to our advantage, upgrading all manner of aspects of the building and the quality of the theatrical facilities.
In another big boost, our changing room area has been brightened up with some beautiful and bespoke artwork on the walls. Pupils from Christ Church Academy designed and painted 6 enormous works of art and delivered them to the theatre in May whilst taking a tour round.
Del Fares, Head of Art at Christ Church Academy, said:
“Our young artists have loved being part of our recent collaboration with Crown Wharf Theatre and I am super proud of their artistic outcomes that are now on display backstage!
I have no doubts that many of our children will not only sit in the audience of the theatre but be on that stage in the near future. What a fabulous facility to have in Stone.”
The paintings have given the building and all our volunteers a real lift; not only exceptional work, but it is also meaningful to know that local children have poured their effort and creativity into this wonderful addition to the theatre.
Things are now progressing well, and we can’t wait to open the doors and realise all the benefits of this new community asset for the people of Stone. We have over fifty volunteers lined up to help run the theatre and a long list of performing arts and community groups waiting to bring the space to life.
Rob Stanway, Chairman of Stone Revellers, said:
“The Revellers have proudly been entertaining Stone for nearly 50 years, and now at last, we will finally have a purpose-built theatre in town.
The theatre will ensure we can keep improving our skills, develop the next generation of performers and keep offering great entertainment to our local community.
This beautiful space will set us up for the next 50 years of fun, friendship and performing arts. It’s a game changer for the Revellers and a game changer for the town, we can’t wait to get in there”.
There’s more to do, but we’re once again making progress. Keep an eye out for a big announcement coming soon!
Head over to www.crownwharftheatre.org.uk for more information.
