Lichfield Garrick is the first theatre in the country to join the Places of Welcome network, opening its premises every week for people “to feel safe to connect, belong and contribute”.
Daniel Buckroyd, chief executive and artistic director of Lichfield Garrick, said, “the thread that runs through everything we do is about creating together, and opportunities for people to come together. A lot of that happens through creative programmes but it can also happen through a cup of coffee or a board game.
“Places of Welcome seemed like a great initiative and us linking up with it seemed a way to help signpost that we're open and welcoming. This is part of a longer-term ambition to get this place open and active and inclusive and welcoming.”
Elizabeth Carnelly, director of partnerships at the Church Urban Fund which pioneered the measure, said, “Places of Welcome provide places where, every week through the year, local people can connect, belong and contribute. We all need to feel welcome and make connections to people where we live. We already have libraries, faith buildings and community centres, so a theatre is a great addition.”