Update 17 November: 

As from 1 April 2023 The Cecil Hepworth Playhouse will be managed by the Cecil Hepworth Playhouse CIO
Bookings can be made now on: bookings@cecilhepworthplayhouse.co.uk

A proposal for the future management of the Cecil Hepworth Playhouse was approved by Elmbridge Borough Council on 28 September.

The proposal has been submitted by the ‘Cecil Hepworth Playhouse – Theatre for the Community’, a community-led group, very much focussed on raising this wonderful venue to its full potential.  As well as a theatre for the community, the new management group intends to tell the stories of past productions and the theatre's historical links with prominent arts companies such as D'Oyly Carte as well as developing the story of Cecil Hepworth and raising awareness of the importance of the site and area to the British Film Industry.

The proposal includes plans to expand the variety of activities which the Cecil Hepworth Playhouse will offer and invites new groups to use the Playhouse. A new and exciting volunteering programme, to involve the local community with the operation of the venue, is also included, along with fundraising events to ensure the Playhouse remains open for everyone.  

In keeping with our commitment to a cultural development in Elmbridge, we have also proposed £20,000 of funding towards the start-up costs from the Shared Prosperity Fund and pledged a further five years support grant totalling £110,000.

This proposal seeks to ensure a future for the Playhouse, as well as see the Playhouse continue as part of a thriving Elmbridge.

The Board of Trustees of the ‘Cecil Hepworth Playhouse – Theatre for the Community’ said: “We would like to thank first and foremost our supporters across the community! The strong support that has come from the public has been vital in securing this opportunity to “Save the Cecil Hepworth Playhouse”. Thanks also go to the many Councillors from across the political spectrum who have supported us and the Officers at Elmbridge Borough Council who have been working alongside us to get to this point.

"The recommendation is a really positive step forward in our management plans. Approval means the work really starts as the lease and contracts are negotiated! We will need additional funding because the costs of running of a heritage venue like the Playhouse are not insignificant. However, we believe strongly in the rights and needs of our community to have places not only to live and work, but also to play! We invite everyone in the community to join us in keeping this wonderful Theatre alive and thriving.”