A world record-breaking theatre in Great Malvern now has new owners who intend to bring the iconic venue back to life.
At a meeting last night, MHDC’s Executive Committee approved the transfer of the property from Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC) to a newly formed group, the Theatre of Small Convenience (ToSC) CIC.
Earlier this year, MHDC invited expressions of interest to take over Edith Walk Theatre, better known as the Theatre of Small Convenience, in a bid to make it a sustainable community venue.
ToSC CIC consists of volunteers Loz Samuels, Dibah Farooqui and Dr Jan Birtle, who intend to bring their range of skills, expertise and contacts to inject life back into the theatre.
Originally a Victorian toilet, the unique 12-seat building entered the Guinness Book of World Records in 2002 as the world’s smallest commercial theatre.
The theatre has been closed since 2017 after the founder Dennis Neale retired due to ill health and it was then leased to Warwickshire College Group until 2022.
Dennis was well known for putting on an array of shows and puppetry for the local community, including the popular five-minute play ‘The Tale from the Snowcake Man’.
The new owners intend to develop an exciting and ambitious programme which includes puppetry, spoken word, virtual reality, Christmas Grotto, workshops, educational activities, with accessible community participation and outreach.
Before the programme is launched, restoration and improvements will need to be made to the building.
Dr Jan Birtle, on behalf of ToSC CIC, said: “This will be fantastic for the residents of Malvern and surrounding areas and will also draw visitors to the area. We are inspired by the opportunity to develop a high-quality contemporary arts programme with a strong ethos of collaboration and community participation.
“The small size of the theatre will be welcome to some and will complement other theatre provisions in the area. Theatre, arts and community connection are great for people’s health and wellbeing, and we are inspired by the benefits that could take off”.
Dennis Neale, Former Owner of the ToSC, said: “The group look very determined to bring the theatre back together and I really want to support them. I loved my short shows and puppetry, and I put eight or nine shows for the community, which became quite popular. I feel like that’s what kept the theatre going and I think there’s room in Malvern for a smaller venue for people to enjoy”.
Cllr John Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Resources at Malvern Hills District Council, said: “We are so pleased the Theatre of Small Convenience will be re-invigorated with these exciting plans. Creating a vibrant arts community that delivers social, economic, and health benefits for our residents is a priority for the council. We wish the new owners the best of luck”.
Pictured:
ToSC: In keeping with the building’s former use, the new owners have made an offer to ‘spend a penny’. L-R: Former owner, Dennis Neale, new owner, Dr Jan Birtle, and Portfolio Holder for Resources at MHDC, Cllr John Gallagher.
ToSC- inside the building: A look inside the theatre as it is today.
Published on 18 September 2024.