Protection and promotion

Concern over the number of older theatres being lost led to moves to preserve, restore and re-use theatre buildings. Finally, some were ‘listed’ during the 1970s for their architectural or historical interest.

Then, in 1976, the Theatres Trust Act was passed, founding a new organisation, The Theatres Trust, the National Advisory Public Body for Theatres. It is tasked with protecting theatres and theatre use, and has a statutory role to advise on all planning applications affecting land on which there is a theatre.

Further good news for theatres came in 1994, with the creation of the National Lottery. Its proceeds fund substantial ‘good causes’, including the restoration, refurbishment and redevelopment of theatres.

Then, as the millennium approached, towns and cities were looking at ways to celebrate the new millennium. Many opted for cultural initiatives, creating new performing arts venues, drawing on the financial opportunities offered at the time. This new breed of cultural centres provided the focus of much-needed urban regeneration schemes, creating accessible ‘landmark’ buildings for the use and enjoyment of all sections of society.