A WORLD record-breaking theatre in Great Malvern now has new owners who intend to bring the iconic venue back to life.
A community interest company (CIC) has been set up to take over ownership of the theatre from Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC) after MHDC’s executive committee approved the transfer.
The Theatre of Small Convenience (ToSC) will now be operated by the CIC of the same name. The CIC consists of volunteers Loz Samuels, Dibah Faroqui and Dr Jan Birtle, who will inject life back into the theatre through their range of skills, expertise and contacts.
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.
“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.”
Former owner, Dennis Neale, spoke of his support for the community interest groups determination to bring the theatre back to life.
Councillor John Gallagher, portfolio holder for resources at the council said: “We are so pleased the Theatre 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”.
