The title of our conference ‘Thriving Theatres’ is in part provocative as many theatres ponder the question of how best to survive in these times of austerity and deal with the changing role of the public sector to both deliver and fund services. It is also a call to all those who aspire towards growth in the economy, more engaged communities, healthier people and investment in infrastructure, to see that theatres can provide solutions. Following Maria Miller’s speech at the end of April,...
Issue 264
Making the most of buildings

The Theatres Trust’s forthcoming conference will examine how theatre buildings can achieve financial self-sufficiency and high energy performance. Mhora Samuel shares some of the themes.
Also in this feature
The Shed, a temporary venue in front of the National Theatre, provides a third stage during the closure of the Cottesloe Theatre.
Tony Heaton reflects on how far we have come to make arts buildings accessible to all.
How can we make sure that physical access improvements remain a priority despite current economic constraints? David Bonnett has some suggestions.
Gus Christie tells the story of Glyndebourne's wind turbine, the first to be commissioned by an arts organisation.
Janet Smith discusses how the new arts centre at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama has created commercial opportunities and valuable experiences for the students.
The former headquarters building for Tetley brewery is to be transformed into a new contemporary visual arts centre for Leeds.
Sue Ball and Ruth Essex analyse the culture and economy around the temporary use of disused buildings.


