Sunderland's oldest community theatre receives funding to expand its offering

The city’s oldest community theatre, which dates back to 1925, is celebrating a £19,997 funding boost from SUEZ Communities Trust.

The theatre, off Chester Road, is currently temporarily closed due to Covid-19, however, there are big plans for the future which the funding will help bring to fruition.

A major capital works project is in the pipeline which includes reconfiguration of the entrance, bar area and toilet facilities.

Fundraising is ongoing for these works which will take place as money is secured.

In the meantime, this funding from SUEZ Communities Trust will allow an independent kitchen project to take place. An enhanced, commercial grade kitchen will allow the theatre to supply high standard bar meals and snacks which it’s envisaged will help secure the theatre’s future sustainability.

Councillors Michael Dixon and Julia Jackson, said: “In our opinion the proper working commercial kitchen would give the Royalty Theatre a real opportunity to provide in-house, pre-show meals.

"In addition, this facility will greatly enhance the overall experience for those who hire the theatre, plus local schools, for whom the Royalty serves to provide live performances for those studying GCSE and A-Level Drama. Having visited several local theatres in the region, it is our opinion that the lounge are at the Royalty is one of the best around, but

at present is under-utilised.

"We feel the proposed kitchen would open up all kinds of opportunities to make the Royalty an attractive place to, not only watch plays and hire the facilities, but also enjoy a social experience.”

Marek Gordon, chairman of SUEZ Communities Trust, added “SUEZ Communities Trust provides funding awards through the Landfill Communities Fund. We were delighted to be able to offer funding to Royalty Theatre Sunderland.”

Sunderland’s Empire Theatre also remains closed, with shows cancelled until at least January.

It means neither theatre is able to host its annual pantomimes, part of the festive tradition in Sunderland.

SUEZ Communities Trust supports projects using tax credits donated by SUEZ Recycling and Recovery UK. SUEZ Communities Trust funds improve vital public recreation facilities such as village halls, community centres, sport, heritage, green spaces and play areas.

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