Coventry’s Albany Theatre has secured a grant of £2.908 million to create more spaces that will generate enough money to ensure its long-term future.
The city council has contributed most of the grant, with the Coventry UK City of Culture 2021 capital fund putting up £500,000 towards the first phase of the work. This will include redeveloping the auditorium and the rear of the main house.
David Meredith, chair of the Albany Theatre Trust, explained, “this is the latest crucial step towards creating a long-term sustainable future for the Albany.
“It’s taken four years to prove our business plan is solid and to give the council confidence that, with the new spaces we’ll develop, we can operate successfully without being a burden on Coventry’s taxpayers.”
The council grant will pay for improvements to the existing studio theatre, three new studios, a new café and improved audience and community facilities.
Kevin Shaw, the Albany’s chief executive and artistic director, said, “not only will the new developments ensure the Albany Theatre’s viability and thereby create a long-term legacy but they’ll also allow us to offer a richer and more diverse programme. We’re creating a high-class, fully accessible arts and cultural venue to meet identified local needs.”