Manchester’s Hope Mill Theatre is launching a community hub and small studio theatre that will host local groups, rehearsals and studio size productions in addition to its main space.
The venue will also launch the Hope Mill Theatre School to train young people in the community. The community space is on Pollard Street, right next to Hope Mill Theatre, and will include a large studio space for community gatherings, dance classes, rehearsals and will also double as a 40- to 50-seat studio space at certain times. A smaller studio space will also be created for auditions and singing lessons.
Alongside the space, Hope Mill Theatre School will launch in June with its first summer term, after two free trial weekends during May half-term.
Due to current COVID restrictions, it will initially launch at half capacity. It will provide training for young people aged 7 to 18 as well as an early learning class for those aged 4 to 6.
Next month, Hope Mill will also launch Clever Cogs, online classes for ages 2–4 and their grown-ups, focussing on song, storytelling and movement.
Funding from The Sports & Arts Trust, as well as a private donation, means 50% of overall training spaces will be free to attend.
Performers Marcus Collins and Hayley Tamaddon are patrons.