Theatre Royal Plymouth awarded £8,356,000 by DCMS & Arts Council England’s, Creative Foundations Fund

Theatre Royal Plymouth is delighted to have been awarded £8,356,000 by DCMS & Arts Council England’s, Creative Foundations Fund.

Since our last refurbishment in 2013, more than 3.5 million people have come through our doors to experience work that brings people together, sparks imagination and creates shared moments of connection. Our building on Royal Parade is at the heart of this, and as our impact and reach have grown, so too has the urgent need to invest in the future of theatre in Plymouth.

This funding represents a major Government commitment to protecting and strengthening England’s cultural assets. In what we know has been a highly competitive process, this award recognises the importance of Theatre Royal Plymouth as a cultural pillar of the South West and the scale of renovation required to sustain it into the future.

This investment will allow us to begin addressing some of our most pressing infrastructure needs, ensuring that we can continue to create, make, build and present world-class theatre in a space that is welcoming, safe and inspiring. This initial award allows us to begin the next chapter of planning to ensure a lasting impact on artists, audiences and communities.

James Mackenzie-Blackman, Chief Executive and Artistic Director at Theatre Royal Plymouth said: “This funding is an incredible vote of confidence in what Theatre Royal Plymouth means to our city and the wider region. Our building has been a home for millions of people, some discovering theatre for the very first time, others returning again and again. It has always been about more than bricks and mortar; it’s about creativity, connection and shared experiences. This investment allows us to protect what makes this place so special, while reimagining what it can be for generations to come.”

Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy said: “I want everyone, everywhere to feel a sense of pride about where they come from. Cultural organisations across the South West are important custodians of local identity and play a key role in the story we tell ourselves as a nation.

"Our Arts Everywhere Fund is delivering on our commitment to support cultural assets across the country, increasing access and preserving them for future generations. This is demonstrated by grants announced today that will benefit twelve culture venues, museums, and library services across the South West.

“Arts and culture are the beating hearts of our communities, they have the power to unite us in the face of division and break down barriers to opportunity. We want to harness the power to help us build a brighter future for the people of the South West.”

Phil Gibby, Area Director, Arts Council England, said: “Today’s announcement marks a powerful commitment to the cultural life of the South West. I’m thrilled to confirm over £20 million of investment across 18 organisations, including £4 million for museums and libraries. This support will safeguard much‑loved venues, from major galleries and civic museums to community hubs, heritage sites and producing theatres. It’s about far more than buildings – it’s about enabling artists, audiences and communities to thrive, because creativity enriches all of our lives.”