The Stage

Stars support creation of UK’s first purpose-built kids’ theatre

Published Tuesday 16 November 2004 at 15:45 by Liz Thomas

Bill Nighy, Jane Asher, Celia Imrie and Arabella Weir are some of the actors calling on the publicto help support the development of the UK’s first purpose-built professional children’s theatre.

The Unicorn Theatre launched the appeal in order to raise the further £1.6 million it requires if it is to reach the funding target of £12.6 milllion needed to complete the development in Southwark, London, as planned by autumn 2005.

The appeal invites members of the public to contribute to the theatre and have their names displayed alongside other supporters such as Judi Dench. Funding initiatives include donating £1,000 to name a seat in the auditorium or £100 for inscribing a name on a supporters wall.

Imrie said: “Most of us who have come here today aren’t here as actors or performers, we are here as parents who want more opportunities for our children to see good theatre.”

The new building is the Unicorn Theatre’s first permanent home in its 57-year history and it is hoped it will cater for more than 100,000 children a year.

Weir added: “People are just starting to realise that kids’ projects are important. For so long we have tended to concentrate on adults without thinking about how theatre can really stay with young people and inspire them.”

The Unicorn, which includes among its patrons Emma Thompson, Philip Pullman and Richard Attenborough, has already received a £5 million grant from Arts Council England and donations from charities, individuals and businesses.

Artistic director Tony Graham said: “I think the launch today shows how much support there is for this project - the heart of British theatre has shown they are behind us. The venue is extraordinary, situated in the centre of historical London. It was chosen from a number of sites specifically because it is accessible and the whole area is being rejuvenated. We are looking to bring thousands of children each year to a building of real quality - purpose-built for them - to see productions of real quality.”